Michael William Prochaska

FUNERAL HOME

Relyea Funeral Chapel

318 N. Latah St.

Boise, Idaho

Michael Prochaska Obituary

Name: Service for Michael William Prochaska
Start: 2024-01-27T13:00:00.000Z
Location: Relyea Funeral Chapel

Michael William Prochaska

July 3, 1969 - January 18, 2024

Meridian, Idaho - Michael William Prochaska, beloved son, brother, uncle and nephew, was born July 3, 1969 and passed away on January 18, 2024, in Meridian, Idaho, at the age of 54.

Born in Denver, CO, Michael soon moved to Durham, NC, and then to Nashville, TN. The family settled in Boise, Idaho by the time he was in first grade, later moving to nearby Meridian during his middle school years. He graduated from Meridian High School in 1987, excelling as a student where grades and classwork came effortlessly to him. Michael was not only an exceptional student, but also an avid skier, tennis player, and a member of the rifle corps in high school. He formed enduring friendships during his high school years that he maintained throughout his life. Graduating from Pomona College in California in 1991 with a degree in Philosophy, Michael furthered his education in law at the University of Idaho. His brilliance was evident, akin to a walking encyclopedia, with an extraordinary memory capacity that surpassed many.

Michael's true passion and expertise lay in computers, where he was exceptionally gifted. Over the course of his career, spanning decades, he achieved success at companies like Lighter Than Air and Microsoft, where he held the position of senior software engineer. Apart from his intellectual pursuits, Michael had a vibrant personality. He loved engaging in debates, showcasing his wit and intelligence. A true jokester like his father, he often teamed up with family members to tease his younger sister, Julie. Beneath his intellectual exterior, Michael possessed a soft, sweet side. Those fortunate enough to witness it will remember it forever. His affectionate care for his niece and nephew was a cherished gift. Michael's talents extended beyond the digital realm; he was an amazing gourmet chef. Friends and family were treated to incredible multiple-course meals, each a culinary work of art. Though the aftermath of dishes might be daunting, the exquisite meals made every moment worthwhile.

In the past five years, Michael battled an autoimmune disease affecting his entire body, leading him to return to Meridian, Idaho, where he received the love and care of his devoted family, namely his parents, Jim and Pat.

Michael is survived by his parents, James & Patricia Prochaska; sister & brother-in-law Julie & Chris Gilbert; nephew & niece Ashton & Ali Gilbert; Aunts & Uncles: Rick & Ann Olson, Rob Olson, Mary & Lynn Walmer; Cousins: Amy & Pat Chang, Rebecca & Matthew Geier, Elise Olson & Jeremy Phillips, Brian & Maggie Olson, Anna & Bob Pfeiffer, Kristin & Jason Nickerson, Lauren Olson & Kyle Peterek, Travis & Alex Walmer, Dan & Amanda Walmer, Leslie & Jon Shogren, & Natalie & Mack Shane; lots of second cousins, his lifelong best friend John & his wife Chris Wreggelsworth and many more dear friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Stanley & Lorraine Olson & James & Gladys Prochaska.

A celebration of life will be held at Relyea Funeral Chapel at 1:00 pm on Saturday, January 27th, 2024. Address: 318 N Latah Street, Boise, Idaho 83706. www.relyeafuneralchapel.com/tributes/Michael-Prochaska

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Idaho Statesman on Jan. 25, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Prochaska

Sponsored by The Idaho Statesman.

5 Entries

Barry & Billie Federman

January 28, 2024

Pat & Jim, Billie & I are so sorry to hear of Michael´s passing. Prayers to you both for continued healing at this very sad time.

MAGDALENE TEEARS

January 27, 2024

Dear Pat and Jim,
We are so very sorry for the loss of your beloved Michael. We know first hand the devastating grief and sorrow of losing a child, as we lost our son recently as well. This is not the way life is meant to go, but deal with it we must. He will remain alive for you in your memories and the love you will always hold for him in your hearts.
With caring thoughts,
Bob and Magdie Teears

Joe and Marcia Bleymaier

January 26, 2024

Dear Jim and Pat. So sorry to hear of Michael´s passing. Can´t imagine! Love and blessings and big hug. Joe and Marcia

Brandi (Wray) Cavner

January 25, 2024

Mike Prochaska, lovingly referred to as "Mikey" in our home over the years, was my high school sweetheart and dear friend. We kept in touch off and on over the years and I am thankful I had the opportunity to have a nice long phone call from him a few months ago. He sounded like his old self and said he was doing well. It was nice to hear his quirky sense of humor and laugh! Even though we were on the phone, I could see his bright smile in my mind! I have many memories with Mike in the marching unit with the Rifle Corps, on the varsity tennis team, skiing, playing card games...One memory, that occurred many times actually, involved playing cards. More often than not, when Mike would come over to my parent´s home to pick me up for a date or practice of some sort, he would insist on playing "one" game of double solitaire with my mom. This often turned into more than one game as he would get frustrated that he could never beat her at it! (No one could at the time!) I would get so mad at him because we would be late to wherever we were going, and accused him many times of coming over to play with my mom instead of seeing me! LOL! ...but my frustration passed quickly. Mom loved it! Everyone who had the chance to get to know Mike, loved him! He has always had a special place in my heart and always will. He was my first love. Precious memories to be forever cherished. I want to share my heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends. I am sorry I couldn´t be there for Mike´s service but I am with you all in spirit. Mikey you will be missed!
--Brandi (Wray) Cavner

Pati

January 24, 2024

Dear Jim, Pat, Julie, Chris and family and the entire Prochaska clan, I offer my love as you navigate this difficult time. I will remember Michael's smile and quick wit, delivered with unusually perfect timing and always in a quiet undertone that somehow managed to sliced through a conversation. I was the grateful recipient of at least one exceptional meal he'd prepared and he was always simply kind and engaging with me. I admired how your family rallied around him when he became ill to help him live his remaining days in the company of loved ones. May you find peace in the joyful memories you all share.

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