Michael Waugh Jochim

A native of Santa Barbara, Mike had a true zest for life. Born with a physical disability, he faced many challenges, but everyone who knew him noted his positive outlook, as well as his quick wit, infectious laugh, and sarcastic sense of humor. One of his favorite quotations was “Do not meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy and good with ketchup.”

In his early years he enjoyed swimming, archery, horseback riding, and sit-skiing. He was active as a camper and junior counselor at wheelchair sports camps and participated in cub scouts, boy scouts, and church activities. He spent a number of summers digging in Germany with his archaeologist father; he also enjoyed canoeing, camping and fishing at the family cabin in Minnesota.

Mike attended local schools and graduated from Dos Pueblos High School in 1994. He had a deep interest in history and political science, which he studied at UCSB and City College, and he took great joy in his travels to many states and countries. He felt he could do anything, including going down stairs in his wheelchair (with mixed results) and was always trying to devise a bigger, better, more powerful wheelchair. He loved following his favorite sports teams, driving his van to Goleta Beach to read and relax, playing with his dog Pepper and astounding friends and family with facts and trivia about nearly anything.

He died peacefully in his sleep on November 12. Mike will be sorely missed by his family, many local friends, and a diverse internet community. He is survived by his parents, Mike and Marcy Jochim, his sister Katie, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. A celebration of his life will be held at Goleta Presbyterian Church on Saturday, November 21 at 3 PM. Donations may be sent in his name to the Spina Bifida Association of America or to any animal rescue group.