Michael Don Burgess

Michael Don Burgess passed away on October 25, 2022, at Portneuf Medical Center in Pocatello, Idaho at the age of 76.  Mike was born on October 8, 1946, in Burley, Idaho to Howard Burgess and Clara Ethel Firth Burgess.  At a young age the family moved to Weiser, Idaho, where he graduated from high school.  After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy.  After his honorable discharge, he attended the University of Idaho for a short period of time.  He was employed by the U.S.D.A., ARS Division in Boise, Idaho until his retirement in 2003.  He had an avid interest in electronics and designed and built many types of instrumentation.  The greater the challenge, the more he enjoyed the projects.  Mike married Carol Gehring Burgess on February 10, 1973, and they enjoyed almost 50 years together. 

While living in Boise, Mike and Carol were avid golfers and met many wonderful friends at the Plantation Golf Club.  The day Mike retired from the ARS he and Carol moved to Sun City Grand in Surprise, AZ where they resided for 14 years.  In Arizona, Mike enjoyed golfing, photography, hiking, and making many new friends.  In 2017, they moved to Pocatello where Mike resided until the time of his passing.  He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church.  Mike loved to travel, and they spent many happy years traveling and experiencing new adventures.  He also enjoyed collecting and restoring antique tube-type radios from the 1950’s and 60’s. 

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Harry Burgess and Jerry Burgess; nephews Terry MeGee and Douglas Burgess.  He is survived by his wife, Carol; his sister and brother-in-law, Mary Anne and Chuck Megee; sister-in-law Rubie Burgess; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Myrna and Roger Lamb; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Gary and Donna Gehring.  He is survived by many nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved.