Michael John Mary Groves, 88

Michael John Mary Groves, 88, of Post Falls, Idaho, passed away on the evening of May 31, 2026. He was a deeply faithful Catholic, husband, father, veteran and friend.

Born on April 3, 1938, in Bay City, Mich., to Jack and Jane Groves, Michael lived a life defined by faith, service and family. At 18, he joined the United States Navy, serving six years on active duty and a combined total of 30 years through continued military service as a United States Seabee Reserve. During his career, he also attended the University of Southern California.

Michael was first married to Antoinette (Toni) L. Pullio, with whom he had three sons, Gavin Gerrad, Colin Sean and Anthony Pio. In 1986, he married Helen Marie Duggan in San Gabriel, Calif. They made their home in Alaska, where their son, Jonathan, was born. Michael often shared stories of his Alaskan adventures and put his Navy Seabee skills to work grading and plowing roads for the Department of Transportation. In 1994, the family moved to Post Falls, Idaho, where he worked for the United States Postal Service.

A devoted member of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Michael was known for his unwavering faith, generosity and passion for evangelization. Friends and family affectionately nicknamed him “Pastor Groves” for his eagerness to share the Catholic faith. Many sacred images at St. Joan of Arc were donated through his generosity.

Michael was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helen; his sons, Gavin and Anthony; and his brother, Tom. He is survived by his sons, Colin, Sean and Jonathan Michael; his grandsons, Dominic and Connor Groves; and many dear friends who became family.

Michael’s life mission was to bring others closer to Christ. He loved deeply, served faithfully and left a lasting legacy of faith, hope and charity.

A rosary and viewing will be at 6 p.m. Sunday, June 7, 2026, at St. Joan of Arc, 4772 E. Poleline Ave., Post Falls, Idaho. The funeral mass will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, June 8, 2026, at St. Joan of Arc, followed by a graveside service with military honors at Evergreen Cemetery in Post Falls. 

Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with the final arrangements. Michael’s online guestbook is at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.