Michael Alan Matisz -Cordero, 76, returned to his ancestors Wednesday, Aug. 12 at his home in Carpinteria, surrounded by songs and family.

Born in Santa Barbara on March 30, 1950 to Margaret Leyva Cordero and Daniel Cordero, he attended local schools, graduating from Santa Barbara High in 1968.

He then attended the University of Santa Barbara, where he received his teaching credential. He later completed a master’s degree through California State University, Northridge.

Michael was a teacher for 40-plus years in Oxnard school district, where he was Teacher of the Year at Driffill School in the year 2000, besides getting many other awards and recognitions. He retired in 2012.

He was a proud member of the Coastal Band of the Chumash Nation, descending from Maria Juana Jimenez of Syuxtun (Santa Barbara), and for several years served as chairman of the band.

He helped to bring back the tomol (sea canoe) culture to the coast and paddled on the first canoe crossing to Limu (Santa Cruz Island ) in 2001.

He also assisted with many cultural and educational practices that were being brought back over the years, including the Story Circle on Cabrillo Boulevard.

The center of Michael’s life was his family. He was a devoted husband and father. He also loved nature, and during vacations from school he could be found camping and hiking with his wife and children around the area and throughout the West.

His last vacations were to Lake Tahoe during the big snow a few years ago and to Alaska.

In keeping with his commitments to nature and human rights, Michael served on County Council of the Santa Barbara County Green Party.

Although a series of strokes put him in a wheelchair the last few years of his life, he still enjoyed being with his family, going on car trips, and playing with his grandchildren.

Michael is survived by his wife of 41 years, Charisse; his children Diego (Vanina) of Carpinteria, Elias of Carpinteria, and Carmen (Omid) of Ventura.

He is also survived by his grandchildren Qashi and Nawani of Ventura, and an unborn grandchild from Diego and Vanina; sister Linda (Steve) of Montana; sister-in-law Barbara of Carpinteria; brother-in-law Chip of North Carolina; sister-in-law Joan (Ron) of Virginia; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Finally, he is survived by his faithful Samoyed Akina, who lay by his bed during his last days.

He was pre-deceased by his parents Daniel Cordero and Margaret Leyva Cordero, and by two brothers Daniel and Reggie.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Kiyaqswalawin, Kok’o!
We love you, Dad!