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Michael Goss Obituary

Michael R. Goss Michael R. Goss, 63, beloved father, magical grandfather, valiant friend, and trusted colleague passed in his home surrounded by his children on Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2007 after a long and courageous battle of liver cancer. Michael was born on April 27, 1944 in Shelley, Idaho. He was an only child who spent his childhood on his grandfather's farm climbing trees and playing games with his uncles and aunts, while learning life's valuable lessons from his grandfather, who was his mentor. Michael graduated from Shelley High School and later attended Ricks College and BYU after a completing a two-year mission with the LDS church. Michael was a self-made man who took an innovative idea and created one of the most successful businesses in the health insurance industry, now known as Myriad Benefits. He began his insurance career in 1972 and earned the C.L.U. designation in 1978. After 36 years in the industry he was chosen as the recipient of the 2007 Dave J. Isern award, which is in recognition for integrity, professionalism and dedication to the insurance industry. Michael had an insatiable thirst for knowledge and was known as a passionate writer, eloquent and exciting storyteller, a thespian, traveler, avid pilot, and a fisherman. He defined his life by the virtues of Love and Integrity, which was evident by how well he was loved and respected by his family, friends, colleagues, and the community. Michael is survived by his five children; Gina (Scott) Day, Ginger (Monte) Romriell of Lindon, Utah, Winston (Vicki) Goss of Boise, Heather Dunnam of Boise, and Nathaniel (Paulie) Dunnam of Boise. Michael is also survived by his 10 grandchildren, who gave him immense joy in this life; Alora, Naomi, Samantha, Keanna, Kayla, Ethan, DarTanion, Mason, Tripp and Meagan. He was preceded in death by his daughter Linda Dunnam and his grandson Joshua Day. Our father was an admirable, witty, kind, beautiful, and talented human being. He was an amazing father and the best "Papa". He is our hero and will be missed. A memorial service will be held on Dec. 28, 2007 at the Boise Centre on the Grove at 1 p.m. in the Summit room with a reception to follow. Arrangements are under the direction of Cloverdale Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, Michael requested that donations be made to the Boys and Girls Club of Ada County at 610 E. 42nd St. Garden City, ID 83714.

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

Published by Idaho Statesman on Dec. 23, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
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Lorie Chandler

January 9, 2008

Winston, all of Michael's family and to Myriad:
Our most caring thoughts are with you in this difficult time of sorrow. It is truly an honor that Michael said "Hello, my friend" when he would call or stop by our office. What a gem! Much love, Steve & Lorie Chandler

James Fullinwider

January 9, 2008

Michael and I knew each other for years as business associates and occasional competitors. He always had my respect and admiration. We came to know each other on a completely different level when he and my wife were both in chemotherapy at MSTI. It was there that I saw the courage, strength and acceptance for which I will always remember him. That was when I also witnessed the many people who were so devoted to him. The remembrances on these pages are no surprise to me. Michael was, and still is, a terrific example of how to live life.

Gloria Elswood

January 7, 2008

I grew up with Mike in Shelley, Idaho. We enjoyed many times together with friends in our town at a simpler time in the world. We had many laughs and much fun due to Mike's clever personality. We just had our 45th class reunion and Mike couldn't attend but he was missed. I will always remember Mike as a teenager with a great personality.Gloria Malcom Elswood

Jack Barnett

December 31, 2007

I have known Mike since he was a little kid picking up milk from my Dad's farm with his Grampa. I have always admired him for his outgoing friendly personallity, he will be truely missed!

Mark Thomsen

December 30, 2007

We are sorry for your loss, you are in our prayers.

martha

December 29, 2007

Micheal came into my life when we both struggled over some deep issues of family and religion. I appreciated all the help he gave me when I was hurting and needed someone to vent to. Thanks for the wisdom to take hold of the pain
and really feel what it feels like, then you know you can conquer the pain all on your own,
and you are much stronger for it
Thanks Marty

December 29, 2007

Micheal came into my life when we both struggled over some deep issues of family and religion. I appreciated all the help he gave me when I was hurting, and needed someone to vent to. Thanks for the wisdom to take hold of the pain
and really feel what the pain feels like, then you know you can conquer the pain all on your own,
and you are much stronger for it.
Thanks Marty

Brian Cronin

December 28, 2007

Though I didn't know Michael for very long, as someone who did business with him, I quickly came to appreciate and respect his integrity, his wisdom, his sincerity, and his dedication to making his business and the industry better. It was evident that his employees, colleagues, and peers held him in the highest regard. My condolences to Michael's family and to all who have lost a friend.

Judy Noorda

December 28, 2007

Michael was a true friend. I will never forget my first date, with my soon to be eternal companion and Michael. Michael loaded up the horses, packed a lunch for three, and took Peter and I to the mountains. He made sure it went perfectly, it must have. As we celebrate our anniversaries,(23) we in some way include Michael. What a sweet ride! Thanks for the memories, we will miss you but never forget.

Jody Hepworth

December 27, 2007

Michael touched so many lives, and our family was touched in so many ways. He was a friend that made a difference. We will miss his smile that will forever live on.

Kelly P. Moore

December 27, 2007

Michael- This business has lost one of the best, you were a example to all of us who knew you of how to do business and how to live life. You will be missed.

Joyce and Dave Stoppenhagen

December 27, 2007

I had the honor to begin working for Michael when his business was still in its early stages. It was a great experience learning from him and enjoying his many successes as the business grew. He was an amazing man with so much knowledge to share. He will be missed. Our deepest sympathy to his family and his many friends.

Jackie Jackson-Gudmundson

December 26, 2007

Michael made an everlasting impact on my life. During the time I worked for Michael, he was my mentor, motivator & faithful friend. He was an amazing man of great wisdom & compassion. My deepest sympathy & prayers to his family and those at Myriad. We lost a great one!!!

Adrienne Stark (formerly Tann)

December 26, 2007

Michael was a light in many lives, certainly he was in mine. He was kind, funny, tender, talented, and so generous. I will always be grateful for the love and friendship that he gave me and my family. It was a privilege and honor to be his friend.

Chief James Bensley

December 26, 2007

We all appreciated Mike and his efforts of helping us out whenever needed. Mike was a standup guy and we will all miss him.

Peter Noorda

December 26, 2007

Michael was one of my best friends and a business associate for almost 3 decades. My youngest son is John Michael in his honor. Michael was a man of great intelligence, humor, deep insight, keen interests, courage and compassion. He will be greatly missed by me and my family. We wish sympathy and best wishes to his family.

Scott Leavitt

December 25, 2007

Mike was a very devoted Father, business colleague & Friend. I enjoyed serving with him through the years on several industry boards. We will all miss him.

Dan and Sheri Ritzert

December 25, 2007

God keep him and hold his friends and family in your loving arms. We will remember his smile and the love and respect he gave to all.

Rod Carr

December 24, 2007

Whenever I was around Michael I felt like I was in the presence of greatness. He was inspiring, challenging and caring. He played an incredible part in my professional development. I will miss him dearly.

Ray Severe

December 24, 2007

I had the utmost respect for Michael. He was one of the good guys in our industry. He will be missed!

Showing 1 - 20 of 20 results

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Funeral services provided by:

Cloverdale Funeral Home Cemetery and Cremation - Gibson Chapel - Boise

1200 North Cloverdale Road, Boise, ID 83713

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