LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Michael Aaron Nelson, age 32, entered into rest on May 23, 2022, after a long battle with cancer.

He was born on Nov. 15, 1989, to Eric and Karen (Gildea) Nelson of Kelseyville, California.

He spent most of his life residing in Lake County where he graduated from Kelseyville High School in 2008.

Michael had many interests and passions in life, but his favorite was anything outdoors. He started hunting with his dad, Eric, when he was only six months old. They enjoyed fishing, hiking and hunting. Their favorite place to go was Guenoc Ranch. The Guenoc Hunting Club had been part of Michael’s family heritage for decades.

Michael met his fiancée, Monica Grider, and things just fell into place. He adored her and her children, Jasmine and Jace Grider, which he considered his own. Their time was filled as a family with many memories and joys. Michael passed down his love of nature and Guenoc to his stepchildren. Michael was a role model, partner and father that truly completed their family.

Michael is preceded in death by his mother, Karen Nelson; grandmothers, Aletta Gildea and Evelyn Nelson; along with numerous other family members.

He is survived by his fiancée, Monica Grider; his stepchildren, Jasmine and Jace Grider; his father, Eric Nelson; sister, Afton [Erik] Stolesen; nephews Leif and Sloane Stolesen; grandfather, Dan Gildea; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Michael had a brightness about him that could only be matched by his infectious smile. He had the biggest heart and was a friend to everyone. He will be truly missed by so many.

Please join us in celebrating his life on July 9 at the Clear Lake State Park Pavilion at 1 p.m.