Final Salute

Michael John Mary Groves, 88, of Post Falls, Idaho, passed away on the evening of May 31, 2026. He was a deeply faithful Catholic, husband, father, veteran, and friend.

Born on April 3, 1938, in Bay City, Michigan to Jack and Jane Groves, Michael lived a life defined by faith, service, and family. At 18, he joined the United States Navy, serving six years on active duty and a combined total of thirty years through continued military service as a United States Seabee Reserve. During his career, he also attended the University of Southern California.

Michael was first married to Antoinette (Toni) L. Pullio, with whom he had three sons, Gavin Gerrad, Colin Sean, and Anthony Pio. In 1986, he married Helen Marie Duggan in San Gabriel, California. They made their home in Alaska, where their son, Jonathan, was born. Michael often shared stories of his Alaskan adventures and put his Navy Seabee skills to work grading and plowing roads for the Department of Transportation. In 1994, the family moved to Post Falls, Idaho, where he worked for the United States Postal Service.

A devoted member of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Michael was known for his unwavering faith, generosity, and passion for evangelization. Friends and family affectionately nicknamed him “Pastor Groves” for his eagerness to share the Catholic faith. Many sacred images at St. Joan of Arc were donated through his generosity.

Michael was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helen; his sons, Gavin and Anthony; and his brother, Tom. He is survived by his sons, Colin, Sean, and Jonathan Michael; his grandsons, Dominic and Connor Groves; and many dear friends who became family.

Michael’s life mission was to bring others closer to Christ. He loved deeply, served faithfully, and left a lasting legacy of faith, hope, and charity.

A rosary and viewing will be at 6:00 PM on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at St. Joan of Arc, 4772 E. Poleline Ave., Post Falls, ID. The funeral mass will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, June 8, 2026 at St. Joan of Arc followed by a graveside with military honors at Evergreen Cemetery in Post Falls.

Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with final arrangements. Michael’s online guestbook is at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com
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