Michael HEPP

1945 - 2025

HEPP, Michael Sep 14, 1945 - Nov 16, 2025 Michael A. Hepp, 80, of Spokane, passed away peacefully at his home in Spokane on November 16, 2025. Mike was born September 14, 1945, in Seattle, WA. He served in the U.S. Army National Guard from 1964 through 1970. He graduated in 1968 with a Bachelor of Arts in Geology and in 1972 a Masters of Science in Geology from Western Washington University. Mike had a varied and exciting geologic career. He began working as a student during the summer in 1968, working for various geotechnical consulting and mineral exploration companies in the Northwest. From 1972 through 1985, he worked with Cominco American Inc, conducting mineral exploration projects throughout North America. Between 1985 and 1992, Mike worked for consulting companies headquartered in Vancouver, BC, examining prospects in the northern Cordillera and the Maritimes. Beginning in 1992, he worked for the Washington Department of Ecology as a ground water quality scientist, and ultimately a water quality specialist. He built a reputation as a solid problem solver and tireless co-worker. He retired in 2019. Mike had many interests and led an active life: natural history, hiking, canoe and kayak paddling, and running. All of these interests continued in his life following his 2014 kidney transplant. He was a passionate mineral collector. Mike was devoted to and survived by his son, Martin (Jessica), and their two children in Lethbridge, AB. A local memorial gathering will be held at Jack and Dan's on January 10th. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Transplant Life Foundation or Donate Life Northwest.