Michael Paul Billen
Aug. 25, 1945-Jan. 27, 2021
Pleasanton, California

Michael Paul Billen was born August 25, 1945 in Walters, Oklahoma, to Paul H Billen and Cora M (Cranford) Billen. Michael left this life January 27, 2021 at his home after a brief illness. Michael married the love of his life Bernie on August 4, 1990. Michael led a full life and was beloved by his family and friends. Because his father was career Air Force, Michael lived and attended school in several states, including Alabama, Alaska, Michigan, Washington, Florida, and California – finally graduating from Walters H.S. in 1965 and attended Cameron College. Michael began his career with the St. Louis Shoe Company. After early stints in Ft. Worth, TX. and Sedalia, MO., Michael was given the opportunity to relocate. He chose Oakland because of the warm weather and moved his young family to the Bay Area. Building on his success, he bought out the local store and grew the ladies shoe stores to several locations renaming them The Shoe House. After many years of success running the businesses, Michael sold the stores and began his long career with Nordstrom. Michael loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing with his father, which he continued throughout his life. As an avid fisherman, sometimes he had a big catch and sometimes not. But for Michael it was all about spending quality time with loved ones. One of his true joys was boating and Michael eventually acquired the boat of his dreams – a 35’ Silverton becoming Captain of the “Silver Star”. Through boating and the Caliente Isle Yacht Club, Michael was able to spend more time enjoying his passion, meeting new friends, and going on extended cruises in the Delta. Michael and Bernie loved to travel, meeting up with beloved friends and family from across the country – most often with Michael sporting one of his many colorful Hawaiian shirts. He was preceded in death by his parents Paul and Cora Billen and brother-in-law Johnny Dirck. Michael is survived by his wife of 31 years, Bernie Billen; sisters Paula Dirck and Pam (Don) Hoopert; daughter Mindy Billen; stepdaughter Kristin Rollinger; son Terry (Angeles) Billen, and grandchildren Blaine, Brittany, Travis and great-grandchildren Bella and Annie; step-son Rob (Janet) Rollinger and grandchildren Bobby, Christa, Brady, Milo and great-grandson Braedon. Michael will also be missed by many close and dear friends who were his treasured extended family. Visitation in California will be on Sunday, February 7, 2021 from 1pm-5pm at Graham-Hitch Mortuary, 4167 First Street, Pleasanton, CA. Michael will be buried with his parents in Walters, Oklahoma following a local visitation and service. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking to please send donations to the American Cancer Society or Hope Hospice Dublin.