Michael (Mick) Gilles died on February 2, 2018 in a tragic ATV accident on his vineyard in Lockwood, California.
Mick was born on October 21, 1945 to Norbert (Tiny) and Van Gilles. The family moved to Greenfield, California shortly after WWII.
Mick was the eldest of 5 children and quickly became the patriarch of the family after his father, Tiny, died in 1969. Michael helped run and later owned his father’s grocery store in Greenfield (Tiny’s Market) and then started the deli-meat market called the Cutting Block in King City.
In 1984 he left the Cutting Block to help operate Gill’s Onions in Oxnard with Steven and David Gill. From there, Mick and his wife Susan ventured out on their own and started Western Onion.
After 18 years in Southern California, they decided to come back to their roots and retire in Lockwood where they built their dream home and developed Roads End Vineyard. Mick’s favorite place to be was in his vineyard tending to his grapes.
Mick, like his father, was deeply connected to south Monterey County and an active participant in its traditions of helping family and friends. Mick and Susan always opened their doors and hearts to their friends and neighbors. Mick loved a good BBQ and was often called upon to BBQ for many occasions. He was a true Grill Master.
Mick is survived by his wife Susan, Susan’s two children Wes (Candice) and Jeff Harrington, two grandchildren (Max and Ella), his Mother Van, who will be turning 98 this year and his two remaining siblings, Jeff( Sue) and Mark (Cyndi).
Mick was predeceased by his Father, Tiny, his sister Katie and brother Chris (Teri). Mick also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews in addition to all those who knew and loved him.
To honor he and Susan’s tradition, there will be a Celebration of Life at the Salinas Valley Fair Expo building on Saturday, March 3, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Please call for directions and/or a map to their home by calling Helen at 831-471-7513.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the King City Chapter of The Knights of Columbus.
