Michael Raymond Connors

Michael Raymond Connors, lovingly known as Mike to many, passed away on February 14, 2026, in San Diego, California, at the age of 62. He died of a heart attack, surrounded by family. After years of dedicated sobriety, Michael fought hard for his health and his life, and his family is grateful that his passing was peaceful. Michael was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to James Joseph and Jo Ann Reilly Connors, both originally from Chicago, Illinois. He moved to California at the age of three (sitting in the "between" seat of a station wagon along with 2 year old brother John and spent his childhood and early adulthood across several cities that shaped him deeply. He lived in Chula Vista, in Napa and in Bonita. His adult life took him to Chicago, Florida, Fontana and finally back to San Diego where he lived from 2023 until his passing. Michael graduated from Bonita Vista High School in 1982, attended Southwestern Junior College until 1984, and was in the graduating class of 1988 at University of La Verne. A talented athlete, he played defensive back and wide receiver on Bonita's football team and forward on the basketball teams at all three schools, forming friendships and memories that stayed with him throughout his life. Over the course of his career, Michael held many roles that reflected his versatility and natural leadership. He managed shipping and receiving, contributed to sales,and served as the Administrative Manager of RCR Financial and was starting a new business as a Brand Associate for Asea. . He was known for his exceptional organizational skills, his reliability, and his ability to bring calm and order to any situation. Michael’s accomplishments extended far beyond work. As a young boy, he saved another child from drowning—an early sign of the courage and instinctive kindness that would define his life. The pool was surrounded by adults and he was the one who noticed a little boy on the bottom of the pool. In his final years, he inspired others to make healthier choices, including choosing sobriety, eating healthier, exercising more and/or wisely simply by sharing his own journey with honesty, directness and compassion. Michael had a gift for making people feel welcome, seen, and loved. He remembered birthdays, checked in on friends, and offered steady eye contact and genuine listening. He believed deeply that people should like him, and he worked hard—sometimes too hard—to make others happy. His joy came from connection, and he adapted easily to the interests of those around him: sports with sports fans, theater with creative souls, travel with adventurers. He liked to remind all those he loved to "Remember to smile today." At home, Michael found peace in projects and caretaking. He loved gardening, home improvement, and woodworking. Many of his creations—built with care and precision—are still beautiful and functional fifty years later. He could detail a car better than anyone, and he could organize an event down to the smallest detail, remembering who needed to do what and when. Michael is survived by his siblings Mary Jo Ray (David), Beth Connors, Jim Connors, Patricia Connors, and John Connors; his nephews Lucas, Jacob, and Patrick; his nieces Dominique and Candice; his cousin Patrick Moran; and many other cousins and friends who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Jo Ann Connors, and by his sister-in-law and good friend, Laurie Connors and his nephew James Ray. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., at 15001 Grays Peak Ave., Fontana, CA 92336. Guests are invited to wear happy colors and to bring stories that reflect the joy, humor, and warmth Michael brought into the world. Michael often ended conversations with the reminder: “Make it a great day!” Even in difficult times, he believed that attitude and kindness could shape the world around us. His family and friends also honor him with the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Michael was a kind, courageous, and loving man who made people feel valued and uplifted. He had an uncanny sense of when someone needed encouragement and would send a call, a picture, a GIF, or a quote at exactly the right moment. He brought out the best in people, and his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched.

Michael Raymond Connors

January 27, 1964 - February 14, 2026