Moe Nunez

He was a great friend. An attractor of people, everyone loved to be around him and loved to pass time with him I'm gonna miss ya man this picture sums you up perfect

Justin Baca

Cassy Abraham

My favorite Mike memory was when Valerie Ryan, Sara Marie Slovak, and I drove to Arizona on a whim to see Diana Gardner Brucker. We got a speeding ticket for going WAY too fast and flat tire, but smiles never left our faces. Michael got his "Love." tattoo on that trip. Its remarkable how that one word can embody a person so entirely.

Joshua Emmanuel Tiqui

So, I've cried enough... I think I can share now

Michael Ray Vega had so many qualities I cherished and admired. I think it was Kim Varela that said "he thought a lot about what he thought about" and it really hit home. If I take away anything from the beautiful life he lived, it will be that.

I've seen so many o

f you that I haven't seen in months or even years that came out to pay respects and give us support, and despite the fact that it was this tragedy that was the reason we were all together, Vega would love to know that we are all together smiling and laughing in-between the tears.

I am HONORED to have spent his last 15 with him, and we got to chat a lot about some stuff that seems so unimportant now. He got to take his usual jabs at me, and I cherish those last few moments above all. Before we went back to work, he had me dying from laughter at the expense of a couple of our friends. In that 15 minutes, we did, however, chat about the bike ride he was going to take as soon as he got off.

Two hours later, he gave me his "cheers, mate" as he grabbed his bike before he left and I knew he wasn't heading straight home. I spent the last couple days in a lot of grief because my last words to him weren't "ride safe"; what I said was "ride hard". This absolutely crushed me for the next two days, but tonight I realized that it didn't matter what I said to him. He rode safe. And he rode hard.

Because that's how he lived life. He was passionate about EVERYTHING he did and he lived life to the fullest. At 25 years, he did more in his life than most of us will ever do. His last moments, he was going to see the woman he loved with all of his heart, probably listening to a song that she got into his head which made him love her more, riding the bike he loved riding, in front of a bike shop and a sushi restaurant, having just left the place he loved working at.

“We’re here to put a dent in the universe. Otherwise why else even be here?”
—Steve Jobs

Michael, look down at all of the tears and smiles and laughter you've brought together. You made your dent bro.

We love you and we miss you

Gordon Fok

I worked with Mike, while I was at Victoria Gardens. Well, humbly speaking, I was his trainer. Quiet fellow, sharp young dude. Sat at the table next to me. Slightly off topic, earlier that year I had an amazing assignment to work in Hong Kong for the summer with Apple. Anyway, it was my turn to speak, I spoke about the culture of our company, how the people was unified together around the world, from different continents. No matter where you go, if you worked for Apple and worked for them in an another country, you were greeted like family. When I spoke, I saw the exact same fellow light up, and suddenly looked interested.

The next day, I had the opportunity to sit with Vega, at the same table. We didn't get to talk much, because it was all lectures. However, it was when we went to a nearby In-N-Out. I drove, and he sat in my front seat of the car. He turned around and asked me,"dude have you been to Nippon?" I got all confused. But then realized, he was talking about Japan. Telling me how he stayed there for a month to 3 months, I believe? And that he would do it all over again, because he loved the culture and the pace. That car ride was the start of our friendship, as we learned a lot from each other's background. Finally we get to In-N-Out, he's was first to order. It was a grilled cheese.

The most humblest dude I'll ever meet...and also the first to show me what a steamroller was. More on that later...

Chase Pappas

I just wanted to share a quick story that Yvette reminded me of about Michael.

Yvette and I had an opportunity to take employees photos for the sake of Apple internal use and because we needed the photos to show up so the customer could get an idea of who they were going to be meeting up with while using the store's smart signs.

Anyway we had to go through about a hundred or so employees, and if anyone has been in our store it is always busy and people are back and forth in a rush. In our small and crowded store (at the time) Yvette had to grab individual employees and mark them off the list, which royally ticked her off to say the least. When we got to Michael, he was all for it, until I said that he had to take off his glasses. He looks at me and was like, "really?" Yvette stood up and said "ya its required" and then she said something like "say cheesies." So he looks at the camera partially and I snapped this picture.

This was really one of the first times that I interacted with Michael, and his smile was indicative of who he was and what he was all about. His playish, generous attitude and willing to smile even when things weren't going his way.

Thank You for everything Michael Vega...

Chase


May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be ever at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face
and the rain fall softly on your fields.
And until we meet again, Vega
May God hold you in the hollow of his hand.

-Irish Blessing

Breanna Adams

Of all the memories to choose from its hard to tell just one. However, I’ll never forget the time when Mike and I had plans to hang out but my parents wouldn’t let me leave the house for whatever reason, whether it was too late on a school night, or whatever it was. Well, being the good friends that we were, I wanted to find a way to go hang out so I told a little white lie and told my parents I was going to walk down the street to Brenna Courtney's house, who many of you know as my “sister,” to get my sunglasses back from her. When really my plan was to hang out with Mike. Well, it worked, I got out of the house, walked down the street, and hopped in Mike’s blue truck… we all remember that truck. We talked for a bit and then I decided I needed to go back home before my parents realized that I wasn’t at Brenna’s house. So, I went home and thought I got away with this little fib .Well, little did I know, my neighbors saw, told my parents the next day, and I got in so much trouble! It cracks me up just thinking about it! Miss you Mike!

This is Mike being "sneaky" taking a picture. ohh that boy! So many fond memories, they keep coming back. Ride On Mike! Much Love ♥

Breanna Adams

Here is a picture of a few of us on Halloween in High School.. Me dressed as my brother, Allie the Fire Woman, Mike- with his humor, and Julian :)

Sharyn Obsatz

Michael was the Editor in Chief of the RCC Norco Voice when I was the faculty adviser. His staff loved him. He was so patient and encouraging with his fellow students. Plus he never lost his sense of humor, even on deadline. I am so sad.

Sarah Tharp

I was lucky enough to have journalism class with Mike for two years in high school. From our interests and the groups we hung out with, we were complete opposites. We formed a friendship regardless. Some of my best memories from high school are from that class and Michael Ray (as I called him, much to his dismay) is a large reason as to why. He was genuine, caring, and passionate. And he always had me laughing too (yes Mike, I still remember the earth revolves around the sun! Or.. is it the other way around?? :) ) Michael Ray, thanks for being my wonderful journalism friend and continued thoughts and prayers to your family and loved ones.

Jay Stubbs

Tiffany Alamprese

This is by far the saddest thing I have ever experienced in my life...I pain for the loss of Michael and emptiness that his entire family is left to endure. Michael was such a positive person and I am blessed that I too, was able to be touched by him. I can remember telling him how crazy I thought he was for riding that bike EVERYWHERE! He just smiled :) he definitely loved riding like no other :) you will be missed Michael. Although we feel that you still had so much to live for, it seems unfair and wrong in so many ways... this was God's plan for you... You're a beautiful angel now, ride in peace Michael ♥

Randi Rodgers

Mike was someone who I always wanted to think I was cool. Not in a shallow way. He was the co-editor-on-chief when I writing for the Husky Express, I wanted him to think I was clever. Maybe other people had that same feeling. More than that, the guy had substance, he cared about things, was actively creative, and with a style all his own. My heart aches for his loss, and that of his family. Peace and blessings to all of you who had the pleasure to know and love Mike. (Pic is from Dec 2010)

Donations Through Aug 30th - $680

680$ - Thank you so much to everyone who has donated and posted so far. Our goal is 6000$

Tiffany Dobson

I remember when he started growing out his dreads. He would come up to me everyday in Mrs. Richardson's math class and say "See Tiff, I got soul. I got soul." That you do Mike :)

Jeanine Sanchez

As a teacher, I have met many wonderful kids during my 33 years in education. I also had the joy of being a mom to 4 great kids. Their friends were sometimes like my own kids, especially since I saw them EVERYDAY at school. When I was on recess duty, they couldn't get away with anything .....I knew all their parents. Watching children grow and leave is hard, but that's the way it is supposed to be. Once in awhile, Jake's friends stop by the house to say hi and I love seeing the adults they have become, but I also still see the child. That's what happens to teachers and parents. Not long ago, I asked about Mike, but Jake hadn't seen him recently. When I hear the name Mike Vega, I always smile. Growing up, the boys would always come by my classroom and try to con me into taking them somewhere. I had the big black suburban, so as Taxi Mom, I usually had a group of kids in the back. One night, ( I think the kids were about junior high age), I was driving them somewhere and Mike decided that he was going to ride shotgun with me so that he could control the radio. It was BLASTING!!! I tried to turn it down, but Mike gave me that smile of his with a "Come on Mrs. Sanchez", so there I was driving along with eight boys singing "Girls, All We Want Are Girls" at the top of their lungs and the windows were open. I got some funny looks that night. When Jay called me yesterday, I had to leave a meeting because I was so sad. Not for Mike, but for all the lives that are affected by what seems so senseless, but in actuality, was life's plan for Mike. I always tell my kids to live each day as though it was their last on Earth, because sometimes it is. Life gets hectic, but take the time to go back and give that person that you care about a hug.

Tatiana Magdaleno Balderas

A little story about Michael, not profound or momentous, but just indicative of who he was. I remember at my wedding, towards the end of the night, when I was giving my "thank you" speech, I had forgotten my phone where I had written my speech. So I had to improvise the whole thing and try to remember everyone who I had to thank. I remember at one point I stopped, trying to remember who I had left out and everyone was just looking at me waiting for me to speak and as I scanned over my guests I catch Vega's eyes and he makes the camera clicking motion then points in the direction of Michelle, my wedding photographer. I go "Oh yeah! Thank you Michelle…" and go on with my speech. I looked back in Vega's direction and he gave me a huge grin and two thumbs up letting me know I was doing a good job. I don't remember if I ever thanked him for that. But that was just the kind of person he was, always thinking of others, trying to help out, selfless, and encouraging. Now he's going to be watching over all of us, always. Thumbs up Vagabundo!

Jake Sanchez

So many memories of Mike, it's hard to choose one to reminisce about, but the one that comes to mind is when we were in junior high at CFIS and Mike, myself, and a few others were at his house getting ready for a dance. We were all fighting over one sink and mirror that we all ended up being late, but Mike simply said, "Don't worry, we're fashionably late, and we're the coolest kids here." Mike through and through. You were always a pal and a rival, a friend and an enemy. A mixture of both, equal parts. Thinking about it now, it shows what an individual you were and I've yet to meet anyone like you. You always had a joke and a jab in the same sentence. Although we didn't speak often, every time we saw each other, it was awesome catching up to the days past. The world lost an awesome friend, son, and brother. Rest in peace buddy.

Heather Flores

Where do I even start. I had an amazing journey with Michael Ray, and was fortunate enough to share something very special with him. I am in disbelief that someone so amazing could leave us so soon. I will never forget what an amazing man that Michael was, as a boyfriend, a son, a brother, and a friend. He will always hold a special place in my heart as my first love.

Chuk Loeb

Anika Karr

4th of July 2012- we went to the lake- and as usual, Mike was ready for a fun day- That is one thing I will really miss about Mike- his sense of adventure.

Rene Williamson Vega

One of my favorite pictures from our wedding. Always with the big smile, and that quirky sense of humor. And the suspenders!! Many of my friends and family contacted me when they heard about this, even some that had only met Mikey at our wedding. Almost every single one of them made reference to him being "the funny guy in suspenders that danced all night". ♥

Vanessa Nathanson

Halloween in Ms. Chi's class....my favorite class mostly because Mike was in it....made me and Tara Thatcher laugh EVERYDAY!!!!! Mike touched sooo sooo sooo many lives he was a very very amazing man!!!! Sad we drifted apart so much after high school.... I'd give ANYTHING to see him just one more time and have just one more laugh!!!! Love you soooooo much!!!! My thoughts are with your family Mike....

Audra Littlejohn

I have known Mike for years and even though we have drifted apart the last few years and let life and distance get in the way he has never been absent from my mind. Mike was that kind of guy that made your life richer just having him in it. He was him and nobody else and I loved his individuality. We used to live by each other and freshmen year Mike used to walk me to school and would occasionally walk me home and I will forever cherish those moments. We had many great moments and memories that we shared through the years and each second spent with him is priceless. The impact Mike had on my life and the lives of others will never be forgotten and his memory will live on through his family and friends. Hearing Incubus will never sound the same, seeing art and photography will never look the same, and this world we are living in will never be the same. I love you Mike, we all love you Mike and that will never change. This is not goodbye but just a see you in a bit. Mike had a beautiful faith and I know without a doubt that he is watching over us right now with that beautiful smile he had. RIP Mike!

Jessica Sanders

I remember coming over to play when I was little and Michael, Jordan Vega, Keri Frank and I would rock out to New Kids on the Block for days!

Dennis Quijano

To my best friend Mike. I love you with all my heart lil buddy. I miss you tons already. even when you were still alive I always wondered what you were up to. what plan you had this time to make a difference. what art were you creating, where were you riding your bike to this time? Venice? Huntington? Newport? You were always an ambitious and adventurous soul. I have you to thank for being a light in my childhood. showing me the way on how to treat others, how to carry yourself. Always so loving. Thank you for introducing me to arts. Rock music especially. I remember the day you introduced me to rock n roll, offspring, beastie boys, blink and even sublime with jake and dominick. And especially The Doors and INCUBUS. Starting our first band together;Menace. Most importantly I would not have become the drummer I am today because of your influence you had on me. the day you and Jordan came over and we set up my dad's drums for the first time and had no clue what we were doing. haha. I miss you mike. thanks for being there when i needed you most and you were just being you. This is not goodbye, just merely a short departure, a small vacation until we meet again my brother. my friend. love you Mikey Vega.

- Dennis Quijano

Allie Marion

 

Mike, Heather, Scott & Allie (Jonny Not Pictured) on a trip to visit "LiL Vega" and "Heatha Featha" in New Mexico, 2007.

Lots of love,

Allie

Donations Through Aug 29th

465$ - Thank you so much to everyone who has donated and posted so far. Our goal is 6000$

The Experience With The Women Who Held Mike Last

During the memorial last night at the site of the accident my Mom was able to speak with the lady who last held Mike. My Mom shared this with me.

I had a long talk with the lady that held mikes hand and held his head so that he wouldn't try to get up. It was so humbling to talk to her. she said that he took his helmet off while he was laying there. I'm so glad that he wasn't alone. She asked him if she put her hands under his head if he would not try to get up and he couldnt talk much but agreed to that.

Loved Going to Shows with Mike

I went to high school with Mike and we shared a lot of the same friends. My favorite memories with Mike are at Showcase Theater watching local bands together. Here are some pictures at a show. Praying for his family - Kelli Crawford

Tanya Spence

I knew Mike from the time I was 10 years old in the 4th grade all through high school. He was a big part in some of my best memories and My heart is completely broken knowing he isn't part of this world anymore. I am comforted by my beliefs in God and in heaven, and knowing Mike is there telling ridiculous jokes right now. I'm sending prayers and positive energy your way and thank you for creating a space to share, together, our memories of Mike.

Pictures of Mike

My name is Sheylene and I've known him since the 4th grade.

The Guys

In Loving Memory - Michael Ray Vega

You Will Never Be Forgotten

During this hard time my thoughts and prayers are focused toward comforting the Vega Family. I am starting this Blog so that we can all come together as family and friends to share and remember the beautiful life of our dear friend Michael Ray Vega. Please feel free to make comments, share memories between you and Mike and post pictures. This will be an amazing keepsake for the Vega family to have for years to come. To make things increasingly easier on the Vega family during this hard time I am adding a Donation Button Via PayPal so we can donate together in order to help pay for the expenses of the funeral procession. If you are interested in posting memories please r email drewmpearson.mikevega@blogger.com and your emails and pictures will be posted. Thank you.

Sincerely - Drew Pearson