Michael “Mountain Man” Joseph Gaipa entered peacefully into rest at home in San Leandro, California on January 2, 2022, at the age of 79. His beloved wife of 49 years, Barbara, and best friend Sadie were at his side.  

Born October 19, 1942 in Oakland, California to parents Joseph Gaipa and Virginia Kapika, Michael graduated from Arroyo High School in 1961. He was drafted into the US Army in 1967 and was stationed at Fort Wainwright in Fairbanks, Alaska, at the NIKE missile site for 3 years. Except for his military service, Michael lived in San Leandro all his life. He loved fast cars, classics, and his 69 acres in the mountains.  

Michael is survived by his wife Barbara; brother, Toby; niece Andrea; nephews Matt, Marcus, Robert, Terry Jr and Gordon; and many other loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother Terry Hoffman.  

Family and friends are invited to gather and share memories of Mike's life from 9 AM to noon on Saturday, January 8th at Grissom's Chapel & Mortuary, 267 E. Lewelling Blvd., San Lorenzo.