Michael Avelar, of McKinleyville, passed away on November 29, 2025 at the age of 42 after living for many years with Machado Joseph’s Disease.

He was born on March 15, 1983, in Arcata to Henry and Maria Avelar. His arrival marked the beginning of a life defined by curiosity, creativity, and deep connection. Michael grew up surrounded by a warm, close-knit family who often gathered with relatives and friends—always with plenty of food, laughter, and love.

As a boy, he loved playing Magic cards, exploring computers, and reading fantasy books late into the night—long past when he was supposed to be asleep. In his early teens, he enjoyed playing golf. Michael joined a model rocket club, building rockets with friends and his close cousin, Jason Lowe, and delighted in launching them thousands of feet into the sky. His fascination with the cosmos led to countless nights of telescope viewing and astrophotography. Michael always wanted to understand how everything worked and why, a lifelong curiosity that shaped much of who he became.

At McKinleyville High School, Michael excelled academically. He was intellectual, scientific, and absorbed knowledge like a sponge. He thrived on challenging projects—often working extra hours simply because he loved learning.

His passion for computers led him to pursue a career in programming. After attending Humboldt State University, working in the photo department at Longs Drugs, and living in Arcata, Michael moved to Seattle, Washington. There, he spent most of his adult career as a valued computer programmer at Moodlerooms, working alongside his close childhood friend, Mark Nielsen, before returning to his hometown of McKinleyville in 2012.

Michael enjoyed camping, fishing with his dad, mushroom hunting & traveling—visiting Japan and Europe with Mark, spending a summer in the Azores with family, cruising to the Bahamas and Alaska, and taking many road trips, including two RV journeys across the United States & Canada to see national parks and monuments.

In later years, Michael turned inward toward spirituality. He found joy in spending time with family, taking scenic drives, and experimenting in the kitchen — making jams, cider, preserves, and baked treats, all “in the name of science.” Michael’s love of nature remained constant throughout his life. He also continued to enjoy his evenings playing video games.

Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Maria, and his brother, Nelson. He is survived by his father, Henry; his sister, Melissa; his aunt Elizabeth, her husband Geoff Wright; his cousins Grace, Gavin and Garrett.

The family extends profound gratitude to all of Michael’s health care providers, and especially to Jeremy, who lived with Michael as his primary caregiver and friend.

In honor of Michael, donations may be made to the National Ataxia Foundation to help find a cure and ease for others. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

https://www.ataxia.org