Michael Jay Noordewier

“A horse walks into a bar…” Michael Jay Noordewier was a loving husband, father, Papa, brother, son and friend. He left this world suddenly on July 31, 2023 at the age of 59. He was born to Sharon Schlesinger and Norman Noordewier on September 13, 1963. Step-father Robert Schlesinger joined his family later in life. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to move out at age 15 and join the labor union. Luckily, he was so tall that no one questioned his age. During this time he worked for the oil refinery, and he gained the skills to become a master carpenter. Eventually, he made his way to Turlock and met his future wife, Sigrid while attending California State University, Stanislaus where he earned his bachelor’s degree in political science. Together they went on to have three children, Hailey, Korinna, and Reece. Michael’s personality was every bit as large as his 6’8” frame. He was the life of every party and had a story or joke befitting of every situation. His booming voice could easily be heard across the room. Every decision Michael made was to benefit his family. His goal in life was to be the ultimate provider. Michael held a host of jobs in his short life including, but not limited to: a bouncer, a DUI course instructor, a repo man, contractor, he completed the police academy and had his real estate license. He was a Jack-Of-All-Trades and his greatest attribute was his ability to become a friend to anyone who crossed his path. He used these skills to become a successful business owner and Head Salesman of United Sign Systems with his partner, Darryl Johnson. Michael’s mother always said that he was the type of man who could “fall into manure and come out smelling like roses!” In his free time, Michael loved to travel with his family. He was a lifelong learner and loved to read. In his quest for adventure, Michael learned to scuba dive, he earned his black belt in Aikido, and traveled the world tasting the best food. His two grandsons, Carstyn and Sawyer, were his biggest fans. Michael leaves behind his wife Sigrid, his children Hailey (Brandyn) Antolak, Korinna (Kurtis) Woody, Reece Noordewier, and his honorary son, Andrew Howard. His grandchildren Carstyn and Sawyer Antolak and Brooklyn Woody. His parents Sharon and Robert Schlesinger and Norman Noordewier. His sisters Pamela Kehaly and Cindy Timpanaro. Memorial contributions can be made to: the “Michael J. Noordewier Memorial Scholarship” care of Oakdale Joint Unified School District 168 S. 3rd Ave., Oakdale CA 95361 Please contact the family for service information. Michael always laughed at his own jokes, whether or not anyone joined in with him. We always waited on baited breath for those punch lines… “…and the bartender said, “Hey buddy, why the long face?”

Tributes

Michael Jay Noordewier

September 13, 1963 - July 31, 2023