Gary Morigeau, 83

Gary E. Morigeau, 83 of Polson, passed away unexpectedly April 5, 2024.

Gary is survived by his wife of 54 years, M. Sue Morigeau of Polson. He is also survived by his children and families Tamra and Aaron Troy of The Woodlands, Texas, and grandchildren Kaitlyn, Ryan and Ashley Troy; Mike and Jennifer Card of Polson, and grandchildren Erik and Matthew Card.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Pauline Tellier and Orville Woodrow Morigeau, and his brother, Donald W. Morigeau.

Gary was born Sept. 13, 1940, in St. Ignatius to Pauline and Orville Morigeau. At a young age, he moved to Seattle, Wash., with his parents where he grew up and then graduated from Pateros High School in 1959.

He pursued his academic aspirations at the University of Washington, where he earned his Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) degree with a focus on Public Health Policy, Analysis, and Environmental Health Program Management.

Gary's career spanned more than 30 years where he served tirelessly to address the health disparities faced by Indigenous communities. His dedication, expertise and leadership were instrumental in advancing public health initiatives and policies aimed at enhancing the quality of life for those he served. Throughout his career and into retirement, he exhibited a profound commitment to improving the health and well-being of communities.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gary was a man of many passions. He found joy and solace in the skies, fulfilling his love for flying whenever possible. An avid outdoorsman, Gary enjoyed hunting, with his most recent expeditions focusing on buffalo. He spent cherished moments at his home on Flathead Lake, boating, swimming and simply relishing the serenity of lakeside living.

A celebration of Gary's life will be held at 11 a.m. May 11, 2024, at the St. Ignatius Mission church where family and friends will gather to honor his memory and the remarkable legacy he leaves behind. In lieu of flowers, Gary would have wanted donations to be made to the DNC in his name.

Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.