WANBERG,
MICHAEL ERIK
Michael Erik Wanberg, 84, artist, mapmaker, art-teacher, passed away on May 21, 2025. Known to friends and family as Mickey, Mick, or Mike; born in Marquette, MI, to a family of Norwegian and French-Canadian ancestry. His father's work as a locomotive engineer for Union Pacific Railroad relocated the family to Oakland, CA, where he grew up loving Doo-Wop music and classic cars. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from California College of Arts and Crafts in Berkeley, followed by army service in Germany, where he toured the capitals of Europe and met a young American tourist whom he would marry. Together they settled in Cape May County, New Jersey, where Mike spent 30 years teaching art and design at Middle Township Middle School, and was affectionately known to his students as Wally. Along the way he raised five children, whom Mike cared for deeply, imparting to them his signature practical wisdom, and leading them on expansive cross-country summer road trips in his two-door Subaru, full of visits to family, friends, and national parks. His children cherish the many experiences and memories he offered them.
Through life's ups and downs he kept himself amused with his own irrepressible sense of humor. His hand-drawn cartoon holiday and birthday cards had a long list of annual recipients. An honest and frugal man, he cared for the people in his life, not clutter. He spent his final years enjoying the company of his many grandchildren, continuing to impart his wisdom and art expertise. We will carry him in our hearts.
He is survived by his former wife, five children, and eight grandchildren. The family would love to hear any
memories of Michael you wish to share here:
mikewanbergmemories@gmail.com
BOWERSOCK, ROBERT After a battle with Alzheimer's, on July 22, 2025, Robert Bowersock “Big Bad Bob” passed away peacefully at home on the bay, surrounded by his loving family and graced with a beautiful sunset to end his final Chapter of Life. Bob was born on January 20, 1940.
July 25, 2025
