Terry "Mike" Michael Alperin

Terry Michael Alperin (“Mike”) passed away peacefully in Santa Cruz on March 10, 2022 at the age of 76. Born in New York, he moved to Ben Lomond, CA many years ago. Mike loved photography, wood sculpture, and digital art. He had an adventurous and independent spirit; in his youth he was known for backpacking deep in the wilderness for weeks at a time. Mike believed in living sustainably, connected to nature. He described having had profound experiences in the mountains and forests, feeling a sense of unity with the natural world, and for years walked several miles a day to feed the fish in a nearby pond that he loved. He spent much of his retirement at his home high in the Santa Cruz mountains, surrounded by majestic redwoods and abundant wildlife. Mike enjoyed cooking shows and books, and was often eager to show off his new recipes when family and friends would visit. Mike was also very creative, and enjoyed tinkering with electronics and crafts projects. Some of the beautiful and imaginative wood sculptures that he carved surround his home. Mike had a generous heart, and donated to several charities annually, including the Sierra Club. He was preceded in death by his parents, June Pierce and Morton Alperin. Mike is survived by his son, Bryen Alperin, and his brothers, Jamie Alperin, and Rob, Dave, and Matt Pierce. Contributions in his name may go to the Sierra Club, thank you.