Michael Nolevanko

Michael Andrew Nolevanko, 74, of Buhl, Idaho, passed away peacefully at a local care facility on January 6, 2025 after a short battle with cancer. Mike was born in Great Falls, Montana on March 17, 1950 to Andrew and Dona Nolevanko, as their first born. He attended school in Great Falls and graduated from Great Falls Central Catholic High School in 1968. He soon met the love of his life, Ms. Linda Gill, and they were married in 1977 in Great Falls, Montana. After they were wed, the couple moved to Missoula, Montana where he attended technical school in Forestry and Linda attended college. There they welcomed their boys Ryan (1980), Evan (1985), and Dustin (1988). In 1988 the family moved to Castleford, Idaho and they quickly became part of the community, with Linda teaching and Mike working for a local farmer. Eventually Mike took a job with the U.S. Geological Survey, and they built a beautiful life together raising their three sons.

Mike was a proud veteran, as he served honorably in the United States Navy from 1969-1974 where he earned the nickname “Bear” for obvious reasons. He made many friends in the Navy, including his friend Jeff Huber, with whom he continued to have frequent, lively conversations even in his final days.

Mike had a passion for muscle cars and classic rock and roll music. He owned a ’68 Chevy Camaro in his youth and attended numerous legendary concerts. He would always be up to attend a car show or go to the drag races with his family when given the opportunity. 

Mike had a deep love for his community and the wonderful people in it, as he was always good for an engaging conversation around town. Thank you to all that reached out and provided support during this tough time. He truly appreciated you all, as did his family. 

He is survived by his three sons Ryan (Raemi), Evan (Jamie), and Dustin (Amanda) Nolevanko, his four grandchildren Jayce, Leah, Theo, and Emalee (soon to be a big sister), his brothers Paul (Polly) and Steve (Nancy) Nolevanko, his brother-in-law Bruce Becker, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family. 

He was preceded in death by his wife Linda Gill Nolevanko, his father Andrew Nolevanko, his mother Dona Nolevanko, and his sister Connie Becker. 

We would like to extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you to Dr. Joseph Ippolito and Dr. Timothy Enders, as your care and compassion made an unbearable situation manageable. Thank you to The Canyons Retirement Community and their staff for caring for Mike for the last few months.

Please join the family for a Celebration of Life to honor and share stories about a great man who will be missed. We welcome you to an open house on Saturday, January 18th from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at Pebble Ponds Golf Course in Filer, Idaho where refreshments and appetizers will be provided.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Mike's honor to The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) or Castleford Men's Club.