Michael Claude Galassi, 59, died unexpectedly at his home in Kalispell on Thursday, Sept. 10, 2009. He was born on April 2, 1950, at Oak Knoll Naval Hospital in Oakland, Calif., the cherished son of Winnie Masterson and Carlo Galassi.

He spent his childhood in Los Gatos, Calif., and graduated from Los Gatos High School in 1968. After graduation, Mike enlisted in the U.S. Army and was sent to Vietnam. After an injury, he was presented the Purple Heart and given a medical discharge.

He moved to Montana in the early '70s to join his extended family.

Mike had two marriages, first to Robin, and later to Marie.

Mike had a fondness for the state of Oregon especially the coastal areas. He made his last trip early this month. According to his wishes, his ashes will be scattered there.

His children and grandchildren were the pride of his life, Nathan and his children, Sharlett, Sean and River; Lance and his wife, Kristin, and their daughter, Faith; Michele Moon, and her husband, Brandon, and their children, Hayden and Ashtyn.

He will be sadly missed by his mother Winnie Masterson; his siblings and their families, Lello Galassi and wife Gretchen, Rhonda Giardina and husband Ben, and Tom Galassi and wife Leslie.

He also leaves behind his dog and constant companion, Jake.

Michael's life will be celebrated at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 16, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Whitefish, at 6330 Highway 93 South.

Johnson - Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Mike's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Mike's guest book, offer condolences and share memories.