Michael James Folkrod

Michael James Folkrod (Mike) passed away on March 3, 2024, at the age of 81, in San

Luis Obispo, California after a lengthy illness. Mike was born July 15, 1942, to parents

Warn and Esther Folkrod of Gardena, California where Mike attended elementary

through high school. After graduating from high school, Mike then attended Los Angeles

Trade Technical College, where he earned a journeyman plumber’s license. He then

joined his family plumbing business, George Folkrod and Son Plumbing, which was

founded in 1923 by Mike’s grandfather George. When Mike’s father suddenly passed in

1970, Mike took over the business and ran it for nearly five decades. During his

exemplary career, he garnered two U.S. patents for plumbing specialty tools. Mike was

renowned as a Master Craftsman by his customers, peers, and those who knew him.

Mike was also passionate about auto racing and built several award-winning

dragsters. By using a special fuel, one of Mike’s dragsters held a world record for

several years. In the 1980’s, he became deeply involved in the world of professional

Sprint Car racing.

In December 1965, Mike married Sandra (Sandy) Renee Mayhew, also of Gardena. In

1967, Mike and Sandy welcomed their first son, Mark. Then, in 1968, they had a second

son, William, who died in infancy; and in 1969 they welcomed another son, James.

During this phase of his life, Mike was a Reserve Police Officer with the Gardena Police

Department as well as a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Gardena.

After their sons were grown, Mike and Sandy moved to Arroyo Grande, California where

Mike built the first of two custom homes. The couple later moved to Weed, California

where Mike built their dream home and made countless friends. Sandy predeceased

him in 2011.

Mike later married Sharian Johnstone-Berg and relocated to San Luis Obispo. As his

health declined over the last few years, Sharian lovingly took care of him until his

passing.

Besides his creativity, mechanical, automotive and plumbing prowess, Mike will also be

remembered for his barbecuing skills, generosity, humor and storytelling, which

endeared many people to him.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Sharian; sons Mark and James (Jim); sisters

Kathalee Robbins, Anne Hazelton and Susan Lynn; grandchildren Aaron, Lily, Levi,

Jack and Violet; cousin Marcia Petersen Good; and many nieces and nephews.

A public celebration of life is scheduled for 3 PM on Friday, March 15th, 2024 at Harvest

Church in Arroyo Grande.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael James Folkrod, please visit our floral store.