Michael James Murdock, 67

Mike was born Aug. 13, 1956, in Emmett, Idaho, to Jim Murdock and Margie (Lawrence) Murdock. The oldest of four siblings, Mike was a true big bro to Debbie, John, and Jackie. He was also husband to Betsy and father to Sara and Katie. 

Mike had a wonderful outdoor Idaho childhood, surrounded by extended family. He would spend summers at logging camp with his mother’s side of the family. He ran wild with his cousins, always learning and absorbing the ways of nature (and BB guns). His dad introduced him to the Salmon River Country, and together they hiked to access many special hunting or fishing spots. 

Logging was in Mike’s blood. He combined natural athleticism with his knowledge of physics to become a skilled timber faller. At age 17, he was cutting right of way for logging roads. He later added horse logging to his skill set by working with his uncles and grandfather. 

Mike met his partner of 48 years, Betsy, at the Fiddler’s Festival in Weiser, using the “cute puppy” tactic. “It’s Friday, I’m going to Betsy’s lookout,” became the norm for the next three summers. They were married on the summer solstice in iconic “hippie style,” surrounded by friends and family in a horse pasture outside of Hamilton, Mont. Mike’s work as a timber faller for Columbia Helicopter Logging allowed them to explore Northwest Montana and Central Idaho, living in a tipi; and hiking, fishing, playing music, and enjoying good friends.

Impending arrival of first daughter Sara inspired Mike and Betsy to build what Mike would call, “the original tiny house” in Montana in 1981. But settling down didn’t last long and in 1982, the young family moved to Alaska, where more and bigger fish beckoned, as well as the opportunity for Mike to expand his carpentry skills. Alaska was a great adventure, but after second daughter Katie’s arrival in 1983, Mike and Betsy decided that Sandpoint was the place to raise a family, so … back to Idahome. 

Mike cut logs for a while, but soon turned his talents to fine homebuilding. He left his mark in Bonner County with homes too numerous to count. Some with partners and subcontractors, but later with Betsy. He was a patient teacher, and very quickly her confidence and skill grew and she became his “right hand man”. For 25 years, they worked side by side, turning their attention to smaller, hand-crafted houses. Together, they found fulfillment traveling to build houses for family and friends. Mike was not just a carpenter — but a craftsman, artisan, and engineer who had true pride in his work. 

Mike was curious, intelligent and a lifelong learner and avid reader. He listened to all who were willing to share their experiences and knowledge. He called it “pickin’ their brain”. In turn, he was always willing to lend tools and tips, answer questions, and mentored quite a few young carpenters. He was able to find a common ground and hold a conversation with just about anyone. Some would say he had a “special talent” for getting folks to do what he needed them to do. His wise and funny adages, what his family called “Mikey-isms” were a trademark of his vibrant personality. And his laugh was unforgettable.

Betsy would describe Mike’s personality as “Idaho Renaissance Man.” Musician and mechanic; poet and hunter; hippie and logger; picker of huckleberries and 2x6s; perfect score on both SAT and CDL. 

Taking care of “his girls” was always top priority with Mike. He felt gratitude every day that he enjoyed his work and could be outside all day while supporting his family. He was a patient, attentive and loving husband and father. Mike guided his children through life with his gentle strength and unconditional support. He was a content blue-collar working guy, taking pleasure in everyday family moments and living a simple life. Recent retirement allowed Mike to add many miles to the motorcycle and van odometers. He and Betsy were able to enjoy more traveling, exploring, and time with old friends and loved ones. 

Mike could be described as a proud Idahoan, who dreamt of having a family cabin somewhere in the Salmon River Country. It is a true “cosmic connection” that Mike and Betsy lived in that area when they decided to get married. It is fitting that Mike left us while on a Steelhead fishing trip on that very river, from an unexpected heart attack.

On Feb. 29, Mike’s close family sent his spirit downstream on the Salmon, “like the rivers and woodlands wild and free,” in a private ceremony that was uniquely Mikey style. 

Betsy, Sara and Katie invite friends and neighbors to join them for an informal celebration of life March 13 at Eichardt’s Pub. Social hour will begin at 4:30 p.m., and at 5:30 p.m., we invite memories of Mike to be shared.