Michael John Newman

Michael John Newman, 54, lost his fight against cancer on Friday December 16th at EIRMC. Michael was born in Idaho Falls, ID on May 30, 1957 to John and Louise Newman. He grew up on a farm on the west side of Idaho Falls. Michael attended Holy Rosary School and graduated from Skyline High School in 1975. He was an eager learner in his youth and was active in 4-H and regional science fairs.

After graduation, Michael attended Idaho State University where he earned an Associate’s Degree in crop management. He received an additional Associate’s Degree from the Eastern Idaho Technical College. He also attended the University of Idaho where he met his dear wife, Dianna Mattson. They were married October 20, 1979. They have two sons, Andrew Jack of Boise and Anthony Michael of Idaho Falls.

Along with working on the family farm, Michael worked for the Bonneville County Extension Service during high school and college as a weed control technician. Michael began his lifelong career at the Idaho National Laboratory in November 1979. He initially worked in the yard pool and later began an apprentice program to become a utility operator in 1986. He was a dedicated member of the Steel Workers Union and served as an area representative and union trustee.

Throughout his life, Michael enjoyed several hobbies. He worked with model trains and built an elaborate mountain diorama with working railroad in his basement. Michael loved the outdoors; hunting and fishing were always a part of his life. He took pride in teaching his grandson CJ how to fish. He also enjoyed camping with family and friends. Most recently, he spent time walking with his beloved black lab Molly along the Snake River. Michael was also an avid golfer, he introduced the sport to many brothers-in-laws and nephews and nieces. He squeezed in as much golfing as possible. He was known to brag about the year he was able to golf every month of the year! He also enjoyed spending time reading a good book. He was a great barbecue chef.

Michael will be greatly missed. He is survived by his dear wife, Dianna, and his two sons, Andy (Barb) of Boise and Tony of Idaho Falls; his grandsons C.J. and D.C. of Boise; his loving mother, Louise Newman of Idaho Falls; and sisters, Anne (Gary) Seifert and Katie (Matt) Weseman of Idaho Falls, Fran (Don) Petersen of Prosser, WA and Susan (Don) Clark of Lake Park, MN. He was preceded in death by his father, John Andrew Newman.

A Rosary and Memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. December 21, 2011, at Christ The King Catholic Church, on the corner of Woodruff and 17th Street in Idaho falls, with Father Paul Wander, celebrant., Visitation for family and friends will be held at the church one hour prior to the services. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be given to the Huntsman Cancer Institute http://www.huntsmancancer.org in Salt Lake City where Michael received great care.