Linda Barkdoll
Scott Patrick Decker, 50, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, September 12, 2024, in Orinda, California. He was born on April 10, 1974, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on a radiant spring day when the yellow forsythia bushes were in full bloom.
Scott grew up in Morton, Illinois, and graduated from Morton High School in 1992. He returned to Ann Arbor where he earned a degree in Economics from the University of Michigan in 1996.
After graduation, Scott moved to San Francisco to begin his career as a financial analyst at a hedge fund. Over time, he advanced in finance and equity research, eventually working independently as a portfolio manager.
Scott is survived by his loving partner, Carrie, with whom he shared a life in both Truckee and Orinda, California. He was a dedicated father figure to Carrie's daughters, Olivia and Penelope, whom he cherished deeply.
He is also survived by his father, Robert Decker of Ann Arbor, Michigan; his mother, Linda Carroll Barkdoll, and stepfather, Lon Barkdoll of Morton, Illinois; and his sister, Beth Stechman, along with her husband, Curt, and their daughter, Allie, of Mackinaw Illinois. He leaves behind many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family across Illinois, Michigan, California, Oregon, Idaho, and Florida.
He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, his nephew Derek Michael Bryan of Mackinaw, IL, and his cousin Paige Cummins of Ann Arbor, MI.
Though Scott's life was tragically cut short, he lived with passion and purpose. His curiosity and appetite for life shone through his friendships, humor, love of music, sports, travel, and constant self-improvement. He found immense joy in the outdoors, especially in the Sierra Nevada, where he sought both adventure and peace.
Scott's warmth, kindness, and joyful smile left an indelible mark on everyone he knew. His generosity and unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life were remarkable. He valued even the smallest acts of kindness, and his infectious humor and positive energy could brighten any room.
Scott loved music and especially enjoyed going to live performances with friends and family. His endless curiosity drove him to constantly seek knowledge, and he often had several books in progress at once. Dedicated to self-improvement, Scott continually aimed to better both himself and his community. He was never shy about sharing his thoughts or engaging in lively debates, always eager to explore new perspectives and challenge ideas.
In recent years, Scott embraced a quieter life, focusing on personal growth and a greater sense of calm. Daily walks with Daisy the dog and listening to insightful podcasts became cherished parts of his daily routine. His radiant smile and unwavering kindness endeared him to so many, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
This winter, his ashes will be scattered in his favorite places in the Lake Tahoe area, a region which brought him deep happiness and peace. A Celebration of Life will be held in Truckee, California on November 23, 2024.
Scott grew up in Morton, Illinois, and graduated from Morton High School in 1992. He returned to Ann Arbor where he earned a degree in Economics from the University of Michigan in 1996.
After graduation, Scott moved to San Francisco to begin his career as a financial analyst at a hedge fund. Over time, he advanced in finance and equity research, eventually working independently as a portfolio manager.
Scott is survived by his loving partner, Carrie, with whom he shared a life in both Truckee and Orinda, California. He was a dedicated father figure to Carrie's daughters, Olivia and Penelope, whom he cherished deeply.
He is also survived by his father, Robert Decker of Ann Arbor, Michigan; his mother, Linda Carroll Barkdoll, and stepfather, Lon Barkdoll of Morton, Illinois; and his sister, Beth Stechman, along with her husband, Curt, and their daughter, Allie, of Mackinaw Illinois. He leaves behind many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family across Illinois, Michigan, California, Oregon, Idaho, and Florida.
He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, his nephew Derek Michael Bryan of Mackinaw, IL, and his cousin Paige Cummins of Ann Arbor, MI.
Though Scott's life was tragically cut short, he lived with passion and purpose. His curiosity and appetite for life shone through his friendships, humor, love of music, sports, travel, and constant self-improvement. He found immense joy in the outdoors, especially in the Sierra Nevada, where he sought both adventure and peace.
Scott's warmth, kindness, and joyful smile left an indelible mark on everyone he knew. His generosity and unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life were remarkable. He valued even the smallest acts of kindness, and his infectious humor and positive energy could brighten any room.
Scott loved music and especially enjoyed going to live performances with friends and family. His endless curiosity drove him to constantly seek knowledge, and he often had several books in progress at once. Dedicated to self-improvement, Scott continually aimed to better both himself and his community. He was never shy about sharing his thoughts or engaging in lively debates, always eager to explore new perspectives and challenge ideas.
In recent years, Scott embraced a quieter life, focusing on personal growth and a greater sense of calm. Daily walks with Daisy the dog and listening to insightful podcasts became cherished parts of his daily routine. His radiant smile and unwavering kindness endeared him to so many, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
This winter, his ashes will be scattered in his favorite places in the Lake Tahoe area, a region which brought him deep happiness and peace. A Celebration of Life will be held in Truckee, California on November 23, 2024.
