Obituary

Michael Adrian Stipher passed away at the age of 79 in his home in San Juan Capistrano, CA on February 13, 2025, his father’s birthday. For the past year, he faced the return of an aggressive cancer with courage, dignity and inspiring strength.

He was born June 23, 1945 to Adrian and Marcella Stipher in Indianapolis, IN. He is survived by Joanie Wilson, sisters Gretchen (Jim) Cain, Nancy (Dave) Foley and Marylynn (Jim) Hoffmann, 10 nieces and nephews and 22 great nieces and nephews. He was a dedicated son, brother and uncle, and a devoted partner to Joanie for 27 years. He was dearly loved in return.

Michael was a graduate of Cathedral High School in Indianapolis and Xavier University in Cincinnati OH. He settled in Mt. Adams where he developed his trademark skill of relationship building as a bartender at the famous Chapter XIII bar and the Victoria Station restaurant. In 1974, he drove to California in his beloved green VW van to join the team that opened the Victoria Station in Newport Beach. Michael’s gift of engaging people led to so many stories he would tell. Those that have become family lore are of encounters with celebrities like Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Johnny Cash and Jonathan Winters.

In 1992, Michael founded Merit Building Specialties in San Juan Capistrano. His charismatic personality combined with his keen business acumen resulted in Merit’s success as a formidable competitor with an impeccable reputation in the construction accessories industry. When not preparing bids, negotiating purchases or on the job site, he found peace walking along Dana Point Harbor, browsing vintage and antique shops, and spending hours each week tending his beautiful gardens, especially his palm trees and roses.

Michael’s legacy is one of generosity in his unconditional love for Joanie and his family, in his commitment to friendship, and in his gift of laughter and storytelling.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on April 30, 2025 at 11 AM at St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera, Dana Point, CA 92629. Following Mass, a reception will follow for family and friends.

In Indianapolis, a celebration of Michael’s life will be held on his birthday, June 23. Mass will be celebrated at 2:30 PM at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 5692 Central Ave., 46220. Visitation will begin at 2 PM. Following the Mass, family and friends will gather to share stories and memories at The Conservatory at Evergreen, 8140 W. 34th St., 46214.

With deep appreciation, the family would like to thank Moe Moustafa for his care of Michael. Memorial contributions may be made to Cathedral High School in Indianapolis, IN or Fr. Joe’s Villages in San Diego, CA. To honor Michael’s memory, say hello with a big smile to those you meet throughout your day. That was his gift to strangers and friends alike.