C. Michael Stockstill

Educated as a journalist, Michael Stockstill worked in Orange County for more than 40 years in journalism and public affairs for the Irvine Company, the Toll Roads, CalOptima, Southern California Edison and as a consultant. Along with co-author Pike Oliver he has always be intrigued by the rich history of the Irvine Ranch and the people who worked there. He and Oliver were inspired to tell the story in their book by the late Ray Watson. Oliver and Stockstill worked with Watson and like many people in Orange County, respected him and his values--values that impacted how Irvine Company properties were planned and built. Stockstill has been fortunate to travel to nearly every continent of the world and to learn about its fascinating cultures. He hopes to spend as much time as possible with the families of his two sons, and especially his grandchildren as they grow and learn with him. This is Stockstill's first book, although he has written for local and national magazines and other publications.