Michael James Trent

Michael James Trent obituary, Santa Cruz, CA

Michael James Trent

Michael Trent Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Santa Cruz Memorial Funeral Home - Mission Chapel on Feb. 1, 2025.

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Obituary of Michael James Trent
It is with great sadness that the family of Michael James Trent announce his passing. Michael was born in Santa Cruz at The Santa Cruz Hospital (where the Branciforte Plaza is now) on February 20th, 1941. Michael was a true Santa "Cruzean". He went through Gault School, Branciforte Jr. High and graduated from Santa Cruz High School in 1959. He played the trumpet and the French horn in the Santa Cruz High School band and the Santa Cruz Symphony. He met the love of his life, Katherine Vitzian, who also graduated from Santa Cruz High School in 1959. They have been married since 1963 and raised their 3 daughters Laurel, Lisa and Julie in the same house they have remained in. Mike was in the National Guard and then started his career in the automotive industry. He had a love of cars from a young age which has lasted a lifetime. Mike's automotive career began with Maycrink Pontiac Cadillac and then worked with several dealerships and ended his career with Watsonville GMC up until his passing. Mike was involved with The Hot Rods at the Beach, being on the committee and helping run the event, alongside another love of his, his 55 Chevy. Mike was a semi pro bowler and was also a volunteer Scotts Valley Fireman for several years. He loved to laugh and loved his family fiercely. Mike is survived by his dear wife of 61 years, Kathy Trent, his daughters: Laurel(George) Basich, Lisa (Humphrey) Pisanis, Julie (Rj)Roberson. Grandchildren: Sara Bartlett, Lindsey Knepper, Kayla Capehart, Victoria Napier, Michael Tait, Emma Roberson and Eve Roberson. Great Grandchildren: Alena Rogers and Ryder Hasson. Sisters: Maureen Ware and Kathy Hunter and brother, Tim Trent.
To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die.
For Celebration of Life information, please contact Julie (831) 334-3877
The family requests that any donations be made to The American Heart Association.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Michael Trent, please visit our Tree Store

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Toni Wilburn

February 3, 2025

I'm so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I worked in the same business. He was always upbeat and had a very good heart. I hadn't seen him for years, but the news brought many tears. My prayers are lifted for the family's healing and peace. I'm very sad that I will be out of state on the day of Mike's memorial. I will be thinking about him the next time I drive my hot rod!

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Santa Cruz Memorial Funeral Home - Mission Chapel

1927 Ocean St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

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