Mike "Gilly" Gillihan

On June 21, 2024, we lost a father, a friend, a brother, a son, a hard worker, and a true cowboy. Mike, known to many as “Gilly,” was a simple man full of life, laughter, empathy, compassion, and adventure. He was a friend to all and a stranger to none.

Born on April 27, 1960, and raised in the beautiful mountains of Emmett, Idaho, Mike spent his entire life embodying the cowboy spirit. From a young age, Mike was drawn to the cowboy life. Raised on the McGregor ranch, he grew up riding horses, herding cattle, and learning the values of hard work, honesty, and resilience alongside his siblings Rick, Don, Kenny, and Heidi.

As an adult, Mike moved to Sweet, Idaho and became a well-respected logger, carrying his passion for the outdoors and adventure with him every day. His love for the outdoors, the mountains, the warm weather, and the wide-open spaces was unparalleled. A true character at heart, he accepted any challenge and loved to entertain. Many memories will highlight Mike singing at the campfire, drinking beer at the Triangle, riding side by sides in the middle of nowhere, and telling the most exciting tales. As long as he had his green side-by-side, a truck bed to sleep in, his guitar, and a cold beer, Mike was a happy man.

Mike was a devoted father to Michael, Johnna, and Mat, and a proud grandfather to Bailey, Jayda, and Kays. His family was his pride and joy, and he taught them the same values and love for life that he carried with him.

Mike is survived by his parents George and Veda Gillihan, his children, Michael (Mardie), Johnna, and Mat; his grandchildren, Bailey, Jayda, and Kays; his siblings, Rick (Lexy), Don, Kenny, and Heidi (Kevin); and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at The Triangle Restaurant located at 8770-52 in Sweet, Idaho at 5:00 PM.  Please celebrate Gilly by wearing a Hawaiian shirt.  

COWBOY CODE:
We end the day knowing we gave it everything we had. We dream as big as the sky. We know challenges come with pain, but pain will not win. We have a passion to do what's right, even when it's hard. We stand for what matters, even if we stand alone

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