Mitchell 'Mitch' Gary Menke, 60

Mitch passed away on Jan. 17, 2022, in Spokane, Wash., at Holy Family Hospital.

Mitch lived in Kellogg, Idaho, and was born to Gary and Ruby Menke at Lakeview Hospital in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. He graduated from Coeur d'Alene High School in 1979.

Mitch is survived by his dad, Gary Menke; sister Cindy Yost; his three children, Amber Menke, Tierra Morgan and son Jackson Menke; eight grandchildren, Jason, Hannah, Halle, Malachi, Makaylee, Zaiden, Veyah and Ruby; along with several nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Ruby Menke, and all his grandparents.

Throughout his years, he worked logging, at Bunker Hill, ran a business in Kellogg, Idaho, The Humdinger and alongside his Dad, but his true passion for work was outdoors landscaping, trimming trees, so he started Menke's Tree Service, but then went to work for R&C Tree Service for several years. Then Mitch went back to his lifelong dream with his son, Jackson, to rebuild and work alongside his best friend, Joel Kitchen, and his grandson, Jason Leonard, and continue Menke's Tree Service, which he left behind at the time of his passing, but his dream will continue to carry on.

When not working, Mitch’s best times were doing the things he loved, hunting, camping, fishing and huckleberry picking. Mitch was truly a family man and amazing friend. He was the most loving and patient man. His laughter and unbelievable but true stories are something we will never forget. His other pride was his barbecue ribs at everyone's request at family functions. He will be forever loved and missed by all.

A quote Mitch shared, "No matter what happens in life, being good to people is a wonderful legacy to leave behind."

A memorial service and celebration of life will be announced at a later date.