Michele Chesnut, 74

Michele Chesnut passed away peacefully May 2, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer, going home to meet her Savior, Jesus Christ. She was born Aug. 2, 1951, in Boise, Idaho.

Michele attended Bishop Kelly High School and later studied at the University of Idaho, where she met her lifelong love, Walter “Bud” Chesnut, in 1969. They married in 1970, sharing 56 years of devoted partnership.

The couple made their home in Moscow, Idaho, where Michele began her career at the University of Idaho Bookstore. She later served as an executive assistant to the deans at North Idaho College, forming many lasting friendships during her 30 years in education.

Michele loved time at the family lake cabin, often starting her mornings waterskiing. She had a gift for bringing people together through her cooking, warmth and radiant smile. She shared her love of skiing with her children, Amy and Michael, creating treasured memories on trips to McCall, Schweitzer and Silver Mountain, where she was a longtime season pass holder.

In 2003, Michele and Bud moved to Twin Lakes Village in Rathdrum, Idaho. There, she embraced golf, forming close friendships and earning recognition for her success in local women’s leagues. After retiring in 2010, they spent 17 winters in Indio, Calif., where Michele remained active — organizing events, teaching water aerobics and leading church services.

Michele was deeply loved for her kindness, hospitality and joyful spirit. She shared an especially close bond with Bud.

She is survived by her husband, Bud; her children, Amy Raab and Michael Chesnut; her daughter-in-law, Julia Williams; her grandchildren, Brayden, Makenzie, Kaleb and Macie; her brother, Mark Cooper; and her nieces, Mendy and Molly.

Her family will honor her life with a private celebration and by fulfilling her wish to have her ashes spread at Silver Mountain.

Please visit Michele’s online memorial and sign her guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.