With love and deep sadness, we share the passing of Michael Nesbit May 12, 2025, at the age of 79. He is survived by Susan, his devoted wife of 58 years; daughters, Jennifer and Elizabeth; beloved grandchildren, Connor, Tara, Hunter, Avalynn and Hannah; and his great-grandson, Auden.
Born February 20, 1946, in San Francisco, Michael was the younger brother of LaVerne Sacher (husband Robert) and uncle to Kathy, Laurie, Jim, and Richard, as well as many great-nieces and nephews. Michael was very close to Susan’s family and shared a lasting bond that brought him great joy over the years.
Michael earned his Bachelor’s degree from San Francisco State University and later completed a Master’s degree in art, with a minor in California history at California State University, Chico. In 1974, he and Susan moved from Redwood City to the mountain town of Quincy, where he began a 30-year teaching career at Quincy Junior-Senior High School.
Beyond the classroom, Michael served as a Plumas County boat patrolman on Lake Almanor and was an avid fishing and hunting guide. His love for the outdoors led him to begin carving his own duck decoys, which sparked a lifelong passion. He joined the Pacific Flyway Decoy Association and went on to earn numerous national awards for both service-class and decorative decoys.
Michael was a passionate educator whose greatest joy was sharing his love of art with his students. He even introduced a carving class at the high school, inspiring several students to compete in the junior carvers division at the PFDA Sacramento show. After retiring in 2004, Michael continued to carve, growing a small business around his craft and even painting animals on rocks, blending his love of nature and creativity.
Michael was a proud member of the Quincy Elks Lodge for many years. He also found great joy and connection in a regular poker game with close friends, gathering for over 50 years to share laughter, competition, and lifelong friendship around the table. More than anything, Michael will be remembered for his warmth, his humor, and the way he made people feel seen and loved. He never missed a chance to share his favorite words: “Did I ever tell you I love you?” “I do you know.”
A Celebration of Life will be held July 19 at the Veterans Hall in Quincy to honor a beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, artist, and friend. His love and legacy live on in all who had the privilege of knowing him.
