Michael Andrew Magura, 75
Michael Andrew Magura, of Kellogg, Idaho, passed away April 12, 2025. He had written his own obituary to be published and we have honored his wishes.
Michael Andrew Magura made his last wildly inappropriate and probably sarcastic comment April 12, 2025. Michael was born to John and Audrey Magura on Sept. 21, 1949, in Wallace, Idaho. His parents' constant love, support and caring far exceeded anything Michael deserved.
He is survived by his daughter, Carrie, her husband, Drew, and grandson Jake in Florida, sister Jo Clifford in Idaho, and John “Jack” Magura in Arizona. A variety of nieces, nephews and cousins who received stellar upbringings would complete the list of those to over-embellish his memory.
Michael’s first experience with reality was being drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. After the Army discovered that he was half blind with “coke” bottle lenses, they honorably discharged him before he could do any damage and just before he could receive GI benefits. After graduating from North Idaho Junior College in the Industrial Electronics program, followed by a two-year Peace Corps assignment in Iran, Michael began an engineering career in the defense industry spanning over 40 years, retiring from Lockheed in January 2015. He worked in flight test on the F-22 and F-35 aircraft programs in both aircraft's advanced tactical engineering groups. He enjoyed his Lockheed title of “corporate hippie,” given to him by his friend in Lockheed HR, hoping that young engineers would laugh at themselves more often during their careers. He believed passionately in associating himself with “light bulb bright” people and then staying the hell out of their way.
His career allowed him to enjoy snow skiing, biking, “cocktails on many mountains” and a very meager retirement in his hometown of Kellogg, Idaho. Michael did not live an average life until retirement. He worked extensively in the Middle East and was constantly traveling and relocating for his work. In life, he laughed at every inappropriate moment, such as, “funerals.”
Cremation will take place at the Shoshone Funeral Services, moving him rapidly to the molecular state. His ashes will be disposed of in a body of water, “watch from where you drink.” There will be no visitation or memorial service as “old” is not how Michael wished to be remembered, much less seen. Have a pint and try to be nice to others would be his wishes.
One may view Michael’s online tribute at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com. Shoshone Funeral Services, Kellogg, is assisting with arrangements.
Magura