Michael Aaron "Mike" MACKO

April 23, 1959 – March 22, 2025

Michael "Mike" Aaron Macko passed away peacefully, on Saturday, March 22, 2025, in Spokane, Washington, with loved ones by his side. He was 65 years old. Mike is survived by his wife, Mariya Dymchenko; his daughter, Cathryn "Katie" Abeyta; his sons, Nathan Macko and David Macko; and his beloved grandchildren, Gabriel and Olivia Abeyta. Spokane was the city where he was born, raised, and spent his life cheerfully and faithfully serving others. Mike's life was grounded in his deep Christian faith, something he carried with him from his earliest years and expressed not just in words, but in the way he lived. One of his favorite verses that reflected his heart and guided the way he lived was Galatians 2:20 – "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." He believed in loving others through service, in finding joy in the seemingly ordinary, and in showing up with steady kindness for the people around him.

A graduate of Lewis & Clark High School (Class of 1977), Mike also studied at the Inland Empire School of the Bible. He was a lifelong learner of scripture, always ready with a verse to bring comfort or hope. Mike worked throughout his life in custodial and maintenance roles, dedicating himself to a career of quiet, consistent service. Those who knew him best understood that this work was his own kind of ministry. He cared for the places others often overlooked, took great pride in caring for the spaces others relied on, and found purpose in doing work that supported something greater than himself. Even outside of his career, he continued to lend a hand wherever he could, always ready to help with skill, kindness, and humility. He approached each task with dignity, reliability, and heart. He never needed to be seen to make a difference; he just needed to be useful. That was enough for him. He made people laugh with his delightfully corny dad jokes. Mike had a way of inviting others to pause and take in the beauty around them-clouds drifting across the sky, the first blooms of spring, fireworks lighting up a summer night. He marveled at the world and saw it as a reflection of something much greater. His own life mirrored that belief: simple, faithful, and full of quiet wonder. He was never the loudest voice in the room, but he may have been the most generous. He gave his time, his energy, his patience, and his whole heart to the people he loved. Being a father-and later a grandfather-was among the greatest joys of his life. Mike's family invites friends and loved ones to visit MikeMackoMemorial.com to celebrate his life, share stories and memories, and reflect on the lasting joy and humility he brought into the world. His life was one of humble service, steady love, and unwavering faith-one that continues to inspire all who knew him. "Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23