Michael Neary Obituary

Michael "Mike" Edward Neary, 82, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025. Born in Caldwell, Idaho, to Joe and Elizabeth Neary, Mike grew up on the family dairy farm alongside his sister Nancy and brother Tom, where he learned the value of hard work.

A graduate of Caldwell High School and the University of Idaho (B.S. Mechanical Engineering, 1965), Mike excelled at repairing anything with an engine -- a talent that served him well in both work and play. He began his career as a project engineer with Birds Eye Foods, later holding engineering and maintenance roles with General Foods, Oregon Freeze-Dry Foods, and other companies before retiring in Albany, Oregon, and returning to Walla Walla in 2007.

In 1965, Mike married Shirley Taruscio, the love of his life. Together they raised two sons, Michael and Mark. Mike served proudly as a U.S. Army 2nd Lieutenant in the Transportation Corps, including a tour in Vietnam. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Mike was known for his faith, steady guidance, and knack for designing a solution before turning a wrench.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and brother Tom. He is survived by Shirley, his wife of 60 years; sons Michael (Ann) and Mark; grandchildren Austin (Kendra) Neary and McKenzie (Anthony) Louthan; great-grandchildren Bodie and Lincoln; sister Nancy White; sister-in-law Joan Neary; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws who loved him dearly.

Mike's legacy is one of devotion, ingenuity, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A Rosary will be recited on Friday, September 19, 2025, at 6:00 PM, at the Chapel of the Herring Funeral Home, with Monesa Grant officiating. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 10:30 AM, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 722 W. Alder Street, Walla Walla, WA, with Father Andrew O’Leary and Father Curtis Seidel concelebrating. Burial will follow in the Catholic section of Mountain View Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Providence St. Mary Regional Cancer Center or a charity of choice through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla, WA 99362. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.