Michael Walter Foltz

With family by his side, Michael Walter Foltz, age 75, passed away on the 9th of September, 2024. He fought back numerous illnesses and ailments over the years, and succumbed to a recent bout with cancer. Mike navigated through health issues starting in the late 80’s, but despite these ailments, persevered greatly in life and spirit.

Mike graduated from Eastwood High School in El Paso, Texas in 1966 and briefly attended the University of Texas, El Paso. He joined the U.S. Air force in 1968 where, serving in the Vietnam War, he flew over 125 missions above Southeast Asia for 2 years, 8 months and 13 days. He was honorably discharged from the Air Force and during his service he received several commendations including the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for valor and bravery. He was an E4 sergeant at his time of discharge.

Upon returning from Vietnam, Mike worked in several industries over his career. He started at the Purina factory in Denver, Colorado. There he met the love of his life, Donna Gallagher, whom he married in 1974 and spent the rest of his days with. In the mid 70s he started working for the Burlington Northern Railroad where he spent almost 30 years. At the BN, he made many life-long friends. He continued working at the Rocky Flats Environmental Technology Site, where he again made many friends. Before retiring, he had a short stint with the Gallagher family business in Boulder and soon after put an end to a hard-worked career.

Mike enjoyed many past times over the years including camping, hunting and fishing, mostly in Colorado. He enjoyed these times with friends and family, as they grew. But Mike’s true passion in his free time was most definitely the game of Golf. He was fanatical about the sport and enjoyed playing it with coworkers, friends, and family. He also spent a decent amount of time traveling to visit family with Donna as they grew into their retirement years. He enjoyed watching the Rockies, where he and his wife both showed us all that they were NOT bandwagon fans…

Mike had a strong and unique personality. He was firm, yet compassionate. If you knew him, he called out the B.S. when needed… but did it with a huge heart. He was a selfless family man and did all he could for his family.

Michael is survived by his life-long and caring wife Donna Ann, his two children Jonathan (Tonya) Foltz and Tara (Jeremy) Byble. Grandchildren Lochen Foltz, Riley Byble, Harrison Byble, and Jameson Foltz. Sister Marilyn Arionus, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Carol Mae Foltz. Aunts Marilyn Foltz and Betty Kilburn. His siblings Roy Foltz and Liz Peters. In-laws James and Venita Gallagher, Bill Peters, Bill Arionus, Dan & Bev Gallagher, John & Barb Gallagher, Lynette Kline. Nephews Brian Broussard, William Gallagher and Jim Dyke.

Mike’s service will start at 1300 (1pm) on the 3rd of October, 2024. He will receive Military Funeral Honors at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado. A reception will be held after at the Warehouse25sixty-five Kitchen + Bar at 1400 (2pm) to 1700 (6pm).