Michael Lawrence Viani

Born on June 20, 1943, in Massachusetts to Lawerence and Josephine Viani, Mike was raised in Boise, Idaho. Following his graduation from Boise High School, he was appointed to the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he graduated with the Class of 1965. After graduation from West Point, he successfully completed the US Army’s Airborne and Ranger schools.

In November 1965, he married the love of his life, Cheryl, beginning a partnership of love and support that would span six decades.

During his 27-year career in the United States Army, Mike and Cheryl traveled the world together, raising a family while stationed in Germany, Australia, and across the United States. He also served a one-year combat tour in Vietnam. His military service reflected his deep commitment to country, leadership, and excellence. During his career he was awarded the Legion of Merit (with two oak leaf clusters), the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (with three oak leaf clusters), the Army Commendation Medal (with one oak leaf cluster), the National Defense Service Medal (with three oak leaf clusters), the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon (3), the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation.

He also earned a Master’s of Science Degree in Engineering from Stanford University.

Following his retirement from active duty, Mike continued to serve in civilian roles with the Missile Defense Agency and SCICOM as well as leading the construction of several U.S. embassies in the former Soviet Union, bringing the same dedication and expertise to his second career. He also was involved in his community, particularly Good Shepard Catholic Church.

More than his accomplishments, Mike will be remembered for his warmth, sense of humor, and the deep love he had for his family. His favorite times were spent around the dinner table, sharing stories, laughter, and a good meal with those he loved most. As a father and grandfather, he was ever present in the activities of his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife Cheryl, their 3 children, Mark (and Kim), Laura, and Paul (and wife, Denise), and 5 grandchildren, Hannah, Catherine, Michael, Grace, and Greta. His legacy of love, laughter, and service lives on in each of them.

A funeral mass will be held on May 12th at Good Shepherd Catholic Church on to honor and celebrate his remarkable life. The viewing will be from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, with the mass will begining at 10:30 am. There will be a reception at the church following the mass. The burial at Arlington Cemetery will be held at on September 8th.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a veterans’ organization of your choice in his memory.