Michael Dolny Obituary

Michael Dolny of Templeton, CA passed away on September 3, 2025 in his beloved home on York Mountain, surrounded by his family. He is warmly remembered for his smiling eyes, kindness, hard work, and zest for a life well-lived.

Michael was born in Siren, WI in 1955 and grew up in the small town of Luck, WI. He was an energetic, athletic child, filling his summer days with swimming, golfing and basketball. He played in a barn-burner of a high school state final basketball game in 1973 under his father, Coach Andy Dolny.

After attending UW-Eau Claire and UW-Madison, Michael moved to Alaska, and later to Missoula, Montana, where he attended Primrose Center, a woodworking school, learning to build fine furniture. This pursuit continued throughout his life, building many pieces of fine furniture. No project was too big for him, even renovating a barn on his property with recycled redwood.

In 1986, he married Linda Jaso, then moved to the Central Coast of California, where they built a beautiful life together for 38 years. They purchased an abandoned farmhouse on York Mountain. He remodeled it extensively inside and out. Michael had a green thumb, planting a fruit orchard, vegetable garden, and many trees.

He had always been an avid lake swimmer, so naturally took up surfing. He lived his life fully, taking advantage of the California climate to hike and swim every day, and to golf regularly.

Michael had a 24-year career as a mail carrier, walking a long route each workday. His work went far beyond just delivering the mail, often touching the lives of the people along his route. As his dear friend, Max, whom he met along the route, put it, "You weren't a postman, you were a soul who walked through the neighborhood and really saw people, offering solace, company and care for those who needed it."

Michael and Linda had one daughter, Kara Rose, who was the joy of his life. He was a great dad and was involved in all aspects of fatherhood: education, sports and travel adventures. Later in life, Michael and Linda travelled to New Zealand regularly to visit Kara and her family. In 2025, they welcomed their new grandson, Albie. It was a special trip and a highlight of their lives.

Michael is remembered as a generous host, always quick-witted with a great sense of humor. He loved to cook for guests and tell animated childhood tales.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Andy and Donna Dolny. He is survived by his wife Linda, daughter Kara Dolny, son-in-law Ben Munro of New Zealand, two grandsons, Joshua and Albie, and his sisters, Mary (Dolny) Dosch and Marty Dolny.

His big, beautiful energy will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

In honor of Michael, donate to your favorite environmental organization.