VOGEL, Michael Rudolf

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona, Wednesday, November 05, 2014 Michael Rudolf Vogel passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2014. He was born in 1940 in San Francisco, California, to Rudolf and Francis Vogel. When the family moved to Marin County, he attended Sir Francis Drake High School in San Anselmo and was a member of the Honor Crew, graduating in 1958. He marched and played in the high school band. Michael loved music and pursued his formal education at the University of Southern California and was a member of the Trojan, Symphonic Marching Band. He graduated in 1962 with a BA, achieving a master's degree in 1963 in music. He had a brilliant career as a professional oboist and devoted his entire life to music. Michael was a member of the Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity of America, Alpha Epsilon Chapter. He was also a member of the Society of Phi Kappa Lambda. He was recognized for professional service and leadership and performance on the occasion of its annual Honors Convocation from the University of Southern California School of Music. Michael served his country in the United States Air Force, California Air National Guard as an Instrumentalist from June 3, 1963 through June 2, 1969. He received numerous decorations and commendations. While in Southern California he resided in San Pedro where he taught music for 30 years in the Palos Verdes Unified School District. He also taught privately at home. Michael spent summers at his retreat in Idyllwild, California and was an ISOMATA member, the Idyllwild School of Music and the Arts where music was played in the forest for the mountain community. He then retired to Prescott, Arizona, where he spent the last 19 years of his life and where he was deeply involved in the Prescott music community. During his retirement years, he served as a music instructor at Yavapai College. He was an original member of the Prescott Chamber Players Society, serving as Vice President for many years and also played first oboe in the Yavapai College Concert Band and Symphonic Band. He was also one of the founders of the Dolce Woodwind Quintet that entertained the Prescott Community for years. He is survived by his sister, Nancy Anita Taft of Lake Tahoe, California; and his niece, Rachael Catherine Taft of Kula, Maui, Hawaii. A celebration of his life will be held at a future date. Hampton Funeral Home assisted the family. Information provided by survivors.