With great sadness, Michael’s family shares the news of his passing from an acute cardiac event while swimming.
He was born in White Plains, NY and graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in Forestry.
Michael moved to Bainbridge in the mid 70’s where he joined a rambunctious group of 20- somethings. Together they built homes, careers, families, teams and ultimately, a community of lifelong friends.
His professional career included the City of Boston, the City of Seattle, King County, Seattle City Light, the Suquamish tribe as well as stints as a farmhand, dishwasher, longshoreman and wilderness firefighter. All along he maintained his dedication to environmental issues and his commitment to advocating for them in his work.
Michael supported numerous local organizations: Bainbridge Ometepe Sister Island Assoc., Si a la Vida, IslandWood, Bainbridge Parks and Trails, BI Land Trust, Friends of Miller Bay and Arms Around Bainbridge. Through careful relationship building and, often, sheer determination, Michael would see projects through and was especially gratified with his contribution to the establishment of the Moritani Preserve.
All the while he traveled, hiked, climbed, backpacked, camped, biked, kayaked, sailed, swam and played soccer. He coached, refereed and mentored youth.
He had great pride for the family he and his true love, Libby, created; daughter Alexis (Kyle), son Peter (Samantha), and his cherished grandchildren, Wade and Vera. He will be sorely missed by an extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, as well as great-nieces and nephews.
Each endeavor Michael took on he did with his whole heart. He was always curious, eager to learn and vigilant for the feelings of others.
Michael, a city boy, found his home in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest forests. Because he was loved he will always be remembered. Listen for him in the woods, you will find him there.
Please join us for an honoring for Michael on May 9 from 1-4 in the House of Awakened Culture 7235 NE Parkway, Suquamish, WA.
We invite you to learn more about Michael’s life and contribute to a lasting record with stories, pictures, poems and tributes at www.MyKeeper.com/MichaelBonoff/
