Michael James Frey passed away unexpectedly on July 22, 2026. Mike was born February 6, 1960, in San Diego, California, to Clifford Frey and Diane (Gandy) Frey. Mike spent his early years in San Diego, Lakeside, and Ramona.
Mike had a daughter, Tarin, with Sheryl Knaack. Their marriage only lasted a few years, but the two remained close. Mike adored his daughter and spent as much time with her as possible. Mike enjoyed trips to Glamis, motocross, demolition derby, archery shoots, working as the pit crew for ABCO racing, and hunting.
On September 4, 1993, Mike married the love of his life, Cyndi Nesheim. Mike had always dreamed of moving to Montana; one month after their wedding, Mike and Cyndi moved to Whitehall, Montana. Together they welcomed three sons: Daniel, Erik, and Zach.
In 2013, after 13 years of living with kidney disease, Mike was put on the transplant list. On November 4, 2014, Cyndi donated her kidney to Mike. He would always joke when the alarm went off for him to take his anti-rejection meds that it was time to feed Cyndi's kidney.
Mike worked as a mechanic for Simkins Hallin for nearly 24 years, where he was appreciated and made many friends. He was always willing to lend a hand to help someone with their vehicle.
Throughout his life, Mike stayed in touch with friends and would reach out if he hadn't heard from you in a while or knew you were struggling with something. He made sure to share a beer or a cup of coffee with anyone who just wanted to talk.
He loved planning camping trips with family and friends, boating, hunting, cooking on the Traeger and Blackstone, watching old television shows, and UFC fights. He was proud of the outdoor pavilion he had recently built with his sons and was fortunate enough to spend the weekend before his death camping in the Ruby Mountains.
Mike will always be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others. He had an unmistakable laugh that will not be forgotten. His proudest moments were as a Papa to Thea and Ophelia.
Mike is survived by his wife Cyndi; his children, Tarin Feinstein (Nic), Daniel Frey (Peyton), Erik Frey (Shilo), and Zach Frey (Alaina); his sister, Lori Moses; and his grandchildren Thea Frey and Ophelia Frey.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents Mike and Myrtle D'Onofrio, his mom and step-dad, Diane and Al Samson, and his mother-in-law, Darlene Wicklund.
A Memorial Service is planned for August 29, 2026, at 11 AM at the Copper K Barn in Whitehall.