Kenneth Michael "Mike" Bird

Kenneth Michael "Mike" Bird, 71, of Pocatello, passed away at his home surrounded by family on January 6, 2021. Mike was born in Idaho Falls, ID. July 13, 1949 to Kenneth and Carma Bird. Mike grew up in Milo, Idaho. He spent his early life farming, learning the value of hard work and cultivating his love for working outside. In 1965 his family relocated to Rexburg where they built and operated Arctic Circle.
He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in which he served a mission in New Zealand. He often shared fond memories and his love for the Maori' people. He obtained a bachelor's degree in Accounting from Brigham Young University. Later Mike was a member of the Bishopric in the ISU Young Adults ward.
Mike was an avid Utah Jazz fan and was often found attending sporting events. Mike built many successful businesses which contributed to the development and growth of the greater Pocatello/Chubbuck area. Mike was commonly found outside in his white coveralls, working on his equipment. He loved playing on heavy equipment, teaching/coaching, camping, fishing, brain teasers and spending time with his family. He loved taking his kids and grandkids fishing and taught them all to gut a fish as a rite of passage.
Mike met Dani Rae Wakley Leger in April of 1976 on a blind date. They were married on October 16, 1976 in Rexburg, Idaho and in 1978 sealed in the Idaho Falls temple. Mike took great pride and responsibility in his family. He was a loving, loyal, forgiving, respectful and generous husband. As a father, he was motivating, creative, empathetic and dedicated to teaching his kids and many others to think outside the box. Problem solving, hard work and integrity were the values he lived and taught.
As a coach and teacher, he often used poems, quotes and metaphors as teaching tools and encouraged others to apply these concepts into their life. He always looked for ways to improve himself and serve those in the community. Together, Mike and Dani created a very open and welcoming home. Mike challenged people to challenge themselves. He had a knack for creating nicknames and remembered every single one.
Mike is survived by his wife Dani; daughters Heather Leger (Michael) Coxe of Pocatello, Brandi (Adam) Clark of Pocatello, Misty Olsen of Pocatello, Tiffany Bird of Bountiful; sons Shaun (Jerdanna) Bird and Jordan Bird both of Pocatello; Klinton Ray Olsen of Pocatello; grandchildren Koby Scott Coxe, Taylor Ray Olsen, Avery Ann Coxe, Ethan Fenway Clark, Jaxon Klint Olsen, Boston Harrison Clark, Jett Michael Olsen, Piper Ann Coxe, Giavonna Michelle Clark, Jagger Kirk Olsen, Harrison Michael Bird, Naomi Debra Clark, Grant Jordan Bird, Kole Scott Coxe, Logan Shaun Bird; he is also survived his special additions Jamie Marie Carlson, Keeli Marie Carlson, Hallie Marie Carlson, Brennan Douglas Carlson, Chloe Louise Carlson.
He is preceded in death by his parents Kenneth Parley and Carma Ingram Bird, his younger brother Randal Scott Bird and a brother-in-law Doug Weatherhead.
You truly are "Off to the bull fights;" we will see you soon. Love, Harry, The Zinsk, Brandito, The Bug, Lil Poof, Meister, Bruiser, Miguel, Boss, Uncle Klint, JD, Kobster, Tee, Ace, E-Man, Jaxy, Bossman, Jitterbug, PypooAnn, Wildthing, Jags, Hank, OmiOmiOmi, Grantster, Koley, Wog-ee, Jamos, Kafiltafish, and Hallelujah.
Services will be held Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at 550 W. Cedar, Pocatello, ID. for family and close friends. Masks are encouraged. A live webcasting coverage of the service will be available on Mikes tribute page through www.wilksfuneralhome.com. Graveside service will immediately follow at Mountain View cemetery.
Memories and condolences may be shared with the family under the "Tribute Wall" tab above.