Michael R. Mercer, 59

Our beloved Michael R. Mercer (formerly of Missoula and Polson) passed away Feb. 23, 2006, at his home in Yakima, Wash., of heart failure.

He was born Oct. 22, 1946, in Whitefish. Mike graduated from Sentinel High School in 1964 and the University of Montana in 1971. While at UM, he was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity and was on the track team, lettering in the triple jump. He received his master's degree in secondary education in Washington.

Mike was experienced in several occupations, but his last 16 years were spent as a teacher and counselor at Fort Simcoe Job Corps in White Swan, Wash. He was also a skilled carpenter and entrepreneur.

Mike was an avid Griz fan. If you were in the vicinity of Yakima, he was the man to call for any information on satellite parties for watching the Griz-Cat games as home away from home supporters. Not only did he love the Griz, Mike was a huge Beatles and Bob Dylan fan. His love of music led him to play guitar in folk bands in the late 1960s.

His passion for life expanded to being an avid downhill skier, a dancing fanatic, a great cook and he loved to boat and waterski. Mike was also very enthusiastic about golf; this was a passion he loved to share with his daughter, Ashley.

Mike will be remembered for his compassion, his sense of caring and his unconditional love for his family. He was known for his sense of humor; he loved to make people laugh. His phenomenal strength through his health adversities was testimony to his character.

Mike is survived by his wife, Carole, of Yakima; daughter, Ashley and Jeff Reed of Gunnison, Colo.; parents, Billie and Gem Mercer of Polson; four brothers, Jack, John and Tina, David and Jessica of Polson, and Toby of Kalispell; two sisters, Gem Renee' Mercer of Challis, Idaho, and Shan and Dennis Toussaint of Florence; and several nieces and nephews. He also leaves his three beloved Chihuahuas and constant companions, Pepe, Lola and Bonita.

His family and friends will miss Mike, but he will not be forgotten. 'We love you Michael.' At Michael's request there will be no services. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.groganfuneralhome.com