Obituary of Michael R. Bebee
Michael R. Bebee (79) longtime St. Maries, ID resident passed away at Tri-State Health Hospital in Clarkston, WA surrounded by his loving family. Mike was born to Horace and LaVella (Beck) Bebee on April 30, 1944 in Kellogg, ID. Mike grew up between the Kellogg and St. Maries, ID areas. He attended St. Maries High School, and then went to work for Safeway.
At an early age, Mike started driving log truck, even spending time in California for work. He married Edith “Sherri” Yeoman on June 10, 1972 in Coeur d’ Alene, ID. The couple had 2 children, Carol and Michael Ann, and they made their home in St. Maries. Mike went to work as a logger for Borgman Loggin and Jody Hendricks Logging. He retired around 2012 after 40 years in the industry.
Mike was a simple man who loved the simple life. He was an avid outdoorsman, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding 4-wheelers, and taking drive up the St. Joe River. Because the St. Joe River was his most favorite place on earth, he built a home near in St. Joe City. It was here that he felt at peace and enjoyed watching wildlife right off of his porch. He was friends with all of his neighbors, and he was known as the Mayor of St. Joe City. Having a beautiful yard and space, he took pride in his lawn care and even had a green thumb. He didn’t know a stranger and found joy in meeting the guys at Bud’s Drive Inn for coffee, or Resor’s (now Joe’s Bar) for beers in the afternoon. They would all just B.S. and catch up with one another; he also enjoyed spending time up in Calder at the restaurant and bar. Mike will be remembered as being well liked, very honest, and having quick wit with a sense of humor like no other.
Mike is survived by his children Carol Strickfaden (John) of Clarkston, WA and Bug Bodah (Richard) of Lewiston, ID; 7 great grandchildren; 4 grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Edith “Sherri” Bebee, and siblings Lee Bebee, Jim Bebee Sr., and Donna Ternes.
A Memorial Service will be on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Elks Lodge in St. Maries. A gathering of family and friends to share a meal will follow.
