In Loving Memory

Photo of Michael Vernon Lieb

Michael Vernon Lieb

January 29, 1951 — February 25, 2026

January 29, 1951 – February 25, 2026 Celebration of life will be held at Lake Eleanor in Yosemite, CA from 3:00pm-5:00pm. We will be sharing memories,laughs, beers, and casting a few lines in the memory of Michael Lieb. Riverside, California, welcomed Michael Vernon Lieb into the world on a cool winter day in 1951, where he would grow to embody warmth and joy, touching the lives of everyone he encountered. On February 25, 2026, Michael peacefully departed this earthly realm in his sleep at home, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Michael was the beloved son of Lois and Vernon Lieb, who predeceased him, along with his first wife, Kathleen Lieb, and his second wife, Maggie Shewmaker. Through life's many twists and turns, Michael's heart was anchored by his family: his cherished children, Sara Branch and Rebecca Josephson, who continue to carry forward his spirit. His life was further brightened by his five grandchildren, who knew him as a devoted grandfather, and a great-grandchild who brought new light into his later years. While Michael's professional journey included working as a master certified welding inspector for over a decade—a career that spoke to his meticulous nature and unwavering dedication—his earlier years saw him navigating the rugged terrain of oil fields and exploring various other vocations. His work was a testament to his commitment and resilience, traits that those who knew him well recognized and admired. Beyond the industriousness of his professional life, Michael embraced the simple pleasures with the same fervor. An avid fisherman, he found serenity and satisfaction in the gentle lapping of water against the boat, and the quiet moments of reflection it offered. His garden was another sanctuary, where he could be found tending to his plants with a glass of wine in hand and a sun hat perched atop his head, a picture of contentment and peacefulness. Michael was renowned for his quick wit and dry sense of humor. His laughter was a balm to many, and his smile—a constant companion—lit up the darkest of days. He approached life with a "get the day" attitude, an embodiment of positivity and perseverance that inspired those around him. The celebration of Michael Lieb’s life will be held on March 30, 2026, at 3:00 PM, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Eleanor Lake in Yosemite. Friends and family are invited to gather, share stories, and honor a man whose life was a testament to love, laughter, and resilience. In remembering Michael, we celebrate not only his accomplishments but also the profound impact he had on those fortunate enough to have known him. His legacy lives on through the laughter and warmth he instilled in his family and friends, and through the gardens he nurtured, both in soil and in spirit.