Michael Joshua Mcgonigal

Michael Joshua McGonigal, son, brother & friend, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of July 4, 2016. Michael was the youngest of 4 children. He was brought into this world to bring us "hope" and he was "our hope". Michael was a beautiful soul who was so adored by his siblings, his family, and his friends.

Michael was born and raised in the Pocatello area. He attended Jefferson Elementary, Irving Middle School and Pocatello High school. From a young age it was apparent that Michael had a knack for computers. He excelled in working with computers and also in gaming.

As Michael's sister would put it, he was "authentic". Michael was…Michael. From his toe socks to his fanny pack to his crazy weird personality, he was himself and that is something people truly loved about him. From a very young age Michael always helped the underdog, the people with special needs or the ones who were ignored. Family and friends were very important to Michael and they helped him have a good life. He made many friends along the way and each one of them had a special place in his heart. Many of his childhood friends are still his friends today. They were always there for him, loved him, and never left him. From his family to his friends, we are forever grateful to you. You were his true companions.

One of Michaels close friends Becca said "Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings have given me unrealistic expectations of friends. Man, I sure was wrong about that. Michael was more loyal than Samewise, Ron and Hermione put together. Michael would have followed me to Mordor and battled Volde with me". This gives a small glimpse into Michael's loyalty to his family and friends. There are no words to truly describe Michael. Those who knew him and loved him understand.
Michael not only had a gift to be able to make true friends, he also was able to touch the lives of the people who he would briefly interact with. He could bring a smile to their face and lighten their day. He always wanted people to enjoy life while they had it.

Michael believed in being himself and staying true to his beliefs and values. He never cared if people liked him or not. He was always, always true to who he was. He would never change who he was to fit in and people loved him even more for this.

We want people to know how grateful we are for the love and support that has been shared with the family though this. It has been felt and greatly appreciated.

Michael is survived by his mother MaLissa Leigh Lewis; Brother's Jessie Hochstrasser and Stephen McGonigal Jr.; Sister Misty McGonigal; 6 nephews; 3 nieces; Stepfather John Lewis; Stepbrother Leigh Lewis; and Stepsister Sydney Lewis.

A celebration of life will be held at 3:00pm on Michael's birthday, August 1, at Raymond Park. (Corner of W Carson and N Grant) Condolences and memories may be shared with the family under the "Share a Memory" tab on this page.