Michael Charles Puchta

Michael Charles Puchta Friends and family are mourning the passing of Mike Puchta after his long and brave 30 year battle with multiple sclerosis. Mike was a long time resident of the San Gabriel Valley having lived in San Gabriel for 26 years and Glendora for the last seven. Born in Springfield, Missouri in 1947, Mike entered the Navy after high school and settled in California when his military service ended. Mike became a respected painting contractor and in 1976 joined the Dunn-Edwards Corporation sales team. In his more active days, Mike played softball, camped and dirt biked. He was an inquisitive man of broad interests, reflected in his love of classic cars, fine shoes and ties, cigars, estate sales and practical jokes. A man of character and faith, he was a generous person, always ready to extend a helping hand when someone needed assistance. All will fondly remember him for his curious and quick mind, his wry sense of humor, his sensitive heart, his zest for life and his bravery in facing his disability. Mike is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Karen (Candy) Puchta, two stepchildren, Mack Denver and Michelle Denver DeMarco (Mike) and four grandchildren, Natalie and Charles Denver; Rachael and Aubrey DeMarco and his faithful nurse dog, Missy. Mike was predeceased by his parents, brother and nephew. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 10th at 1:30 PM at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 512 West Duarte Road, Arcadia, California. In lieu of flowers and gifts, donations may be made in Mike's honor to Friends of Foster Children (Special Activities Fund), PO Box 1105, Arcadia, CA 91077-1105.