Patrolman Michael T. Anaya

It’s been more than 40 years, but Mike Anaya is still brought up when we reminisce about our high school, college and softball playing days. A great baseball player from National City, Mike played, starred and graduated from SUHI and SDSU. Mike joined our Kaibigan softball team at the urging of his good friend and SUHI baseball teammate, Benmar Felizardo. You would think that a near-MLB level player would not be interested in playing slow-pitch softball, however, Mike was an awesome softball teammate that helped teach, coach, motivate, inspire, encourage and support Kaibigan. Like Benmar, he loved playing baseball/softball and enjoyed just being on the field and having a good time with friends, while still showing his all-around baseball/softball skills and competitive spirit. Mike was just a great guy; an intelligent and loving man. He was always a respectful, kind, humorous, fun-loving and courteous gentleman.

Mike would always chatter on the field and in the dugout. His most memorable line (after a bad or missed call) was “hey ump, if you had another eye, you would be a cyclops!”. Mike, you are and will always be remembered.

Benmar passed away a year ago. I’m sure Mike and Benmar are playing ball and hanging out on a baseball field together again. And Danny Cabrera is probably playing on His softball team too. RIP Mike, Danny and Benmar. Teammates on the field and friends in life everlasting. We miss you guys!

Johnny
Friend and Teammate

May 3, 2019