On Wednesday, August 7th, Mike (Massud) Ghandehari, passed away in his home. He had been fighting glioblastoma, an as-yet incurable brain tumor, for three years.

Mike was the 3rd child to the late Mahmud Ghandehari and Melek Ameniam. He is survived by his siblings, Homa, Saeed, and Hormoz, his wife Susan, son David, David's spouse, Amy Bucher, and grandson Forester.

As he told his grandson several years ago, Mike has had many names over the years. Although he was born as Massud in 1943, as he said, "nobody uses that name for me." He was known as Manu to his family and friends from age 3-23 (and beyond).

Mike grew up in Mashhad, Iran. After completing his mandatory military service, he followed his brother to California and enrolled in Napa Valley Community College. He met his wife Susan Towle on a blind date at a Valentine's Day dance in 1969. They married in 1971 (for 53 years). In 1974 he graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering from San Jose State University and also became a US citizen.

Having come to the US with less than $100 in his pocket, Mike was proud to build a strong career for himself as an RF microwave engineer. After serving as President at TRW Microwave, Mike started Advanced Microwave Incorporated with Susan in 1997. In addition to designing intricate components at work, Mike turned his skills to things around the home. Whether building furniture for his first home or designing a system that allowed him to live off the grid, he always had projects keeping him busy.

Mike was similarly proud to be known as Dad and "Baba" and enjoyed spending time with his family. He loved bonfires, camping, melons by the creek, using his ATV and tractor, and improving their property in Placerville. He loved fruit and trees, and planted several fruit trees over the years at his home. He also delighted in running water, a remembrance of his family's property as a youth, Kariz Nov.

Mike took joy in telling stories and jokes. Whether talking to a waiter, client, or family member, he tried hard to make others laugh. He enjoyed swapping puns with his grandson and cracking silly faces.

He will be always remembered, and greatly missed.