Michael Lawrence Meadows of Hermiston passed away peacefully on Dec. 16, 2023 in Richland, Wash. at the age of 72, surrounded by his devoted wife, Michele and family.
He was born on Sept. 16, 1951 in Portland.
His life was a tapestry woven with threads of courage, loyalty, and an unwavering dedication to those he loved – an enigmatic soul throughout the various chapters in his life, each a testament to his vibrant spirit.
A Marine, patriot, father, grandfather, husband, cowboy, horseman, lumberjack and entrepreneur are just a few facets of the complex and multidimensional man that was Michael. He was a man of profound words, actions and deeds. Michael’s unwavering loyalty to his family was a cornerstone of his being. A testament to his deep affection and his commitment was that every prayer included our servicemen, our country, and health and peace for our family.
His beloved wife was a beacon of happiness, peace and comfort throughout their marriage, and the entire Meadows family will be forever grateful to her and extend our heartfelt condolences, thoughts and prayers to Michele and her family during the difficult time.
A recent visit epitomized the essence of Michael’s contentment and serenity, revealing his wisdom and joy and a man at peace, a credit he humbly bestowed upon his wife, Michele. Michael touched countless lives in a myriad of ways. To his high school friends, he was a valiant competitor on the gridiron, the personification of unwavering loyalty. His peers revered his courage and respected his prowess as a lumberjack, employing massive draft horses to minimize environmental impact. His legacy is a mosaic of love, loyalty and courage.
Michael will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving Papa, a stalwart companion, and a man of unyielding allegiance.
He is survived by his wife, Michele, their marriage a union brimming with joy and inseparability with their home in Hermiston serving as a sanctuary where family and friends found warmth and laughter. He is also survived by his children, Evie Vaughn, Travis Vaughn and Katie Munoz; grandchildren, Renna, Elly, Riley, Mila, Maxson and Josie; his brothers, Marshall, Buddy, Mitchell and Monty; and sisters, Marit and Marty. His impact on their lives remains immeasurable.
A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024 at 2 p.m. at the Hermiston Senior Center, 255 N.E. Second St.
Please share memories of Michael with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
