Obituary of Michael John Arrillaga Sr

Michael John Arrillaga, Sr, age 71, of Mtn Home, passed away on October 5, 2018, at his home following an illness. A viewing will be held on Tuesday, October 9, 2018, at Rost Funeral Home, McMurtrey Chapel from 4:00PM to 6:00PM. A Rosary will be held at 6:00PM on Thursday, October 11, 2018 at Rost Funeral Home, McMurtrey Chapel, and a Memorial Service will be held on Friday, October 12, 2018 at 10:00AM at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Mountain Home and inurnment will follow at Mtn View Cemetery.

Michael was born in Boise, on February 15, 1947, the only child of John and Thelma (Christensen) Arrillaga. He attended Mtn Home High School and graduated in 1965. After graduation, Mike attended Boise College for a short time before joining the Navy and serving from 1966-1970. Upon discharge from the Navy, he attended Idaho State University for two years and graduated with licensure in airframe and power plant maintenance.

In June 1971, Mike married Loraine Davis in Glenns Ferry. They were blessed with a son Mike Jr., and a daughter Holly. Mike and Loraine celebrated 47 years of marriage on June 26, 2018.

Mike worked as a Vertol helicopter mechanic for Columbia Helicopters from 1973-1975. During these years he and his wife were nomads as they traveled the Pacific Northwest and lived out of a travel trailer.

After life on the road, Mike was anxious to settle and return to Mtn Home and did so in 1975, where he worked with his Uncle Wally setting irrigation pumps. In 1980 Mike went on to found, own, and operate Arrillaga Enterprises, Inc. He took great pride in working hard and making sure his job was done each and every day. He was most proud of his long-standing relationship with Simplot Land and Livestock and credits Simplot for the longevity of a valued business relationship that continues to this day. In Mike's 35 years in the trucking industry he maintained many important business relationships and had many strong friendships across Southern Idaho.

Mike was a gentle, kindhearted man and loved unconditionally. Family was everything to him. Mike enjoyed golfing, waterskiing, and spending time at the family cabin in Pine. He liked to travel and explored many places. His favorite place of all was Kauai, Hawaii. 

Michael is survived by his mother Thelma Christensen, his wife Loraine, son Michael Arrillaga Jr., and daughter Holly. He was a proud Papa to six grandchildren: Lauren Arrillaga, Sydnie Ivie, Aubrey Arrillaga, Pierce Arrillaga, Davis Ivie, and Macie Ivie. Mike is also survived by his two aunts, Mary Read and Phyllis Bate, as well as numerous cousins. Michael was preceded in death by his father, John Arrillaga, and his aunt Francis Beager.

Together with Mike, the family would like to thank Dr. Olson and Janet, Dr. Harrison, Dr. Alluri and Sharon, Dr. Smith, MSTI and each and every member of the staff, as well as Horizon Home Health and Hospice staff and volunteers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The American Cancer Society, St. Jude's or your favorite charity.