Michael Arnett

Michael Ray Arnett left us unexpectedly on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at his home in Lewiston. He was 44 years old. Michael was born June 7, 1982, to Brenda Hart and Ray Arnett.

Michael became big brother to Dylan Hart in 1993. Though they were 11 years apart, their brotherly bond was very special.

From a young age, Michael was a sweet and thoughtful soul. He always had a soft heart and showed kindness to all people and creatures. He attended schools in Lapwai, Clarkston and Culdesac. Michael played the saxophone in the band at Grantham Elementary and was the manager for the baseball team at Culdesac School. He graduated from Culdesac in 2000.

Michael was always a “neat and tidy” person. As a teen, his ball cap, shirt and socks all had to have the same brand logo and all in the same color. (Even though he was color blind.)

Michael wanted his belongings, his vehicles and his “space” clean and organized. A person didn’t dare move his pen at his work station .... unless you were trying to mess with him.

Michael grew up spending much of his time camping, fishing, shooting, riding four-wheelers and enjoying all things in the mountains. His favorite place was the Headquarters area, camping and exploring all over that country from the time he was in diapers to recent days. These adventures always included numerous family members: grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. And though he never learned to swim, he always enjoyed the creeks, rivers and lakes.

Family was Michael’s greatest love, his kids being number one on that list and his greatest joy. Michael and Stacy Bosshardt welcomed a son, Sean Michael Lee in April of 2001. Both were so proud and excited for this baby boy. 12 years later, Michael became a father again to Brenna Ellen Lynn. Brenna was born almost four months premature, needing to spend her first 3½ months at Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane. Michael was there every possible moment he could be, commuting back and forth at every opportunity his job would allow. 2015 brought daughter No. 2, Makenna Irene Kay then daughter No. 3, Sienna Marjorie Hazel in 2016. Another boy arrived in 2018, Beau Francis Leigh and, finally, Rhett Lance Robert in 2023.

These kids were his greatest pride and purpose in life and he was an outstanding dad. He had so much love and adoration for each and every one.

Michael worked many years at Walmart, then some time at Deranleau’s and most recently, Clearwater Paper/Sofidel. He had an amazing work ethic, was very competent at anything he did and very much enjoyed his coworkers (a.k.a. his work family), making many lifelong friendships. He was quite well known for being a mischievous prankster, loved making people laugh and treated others with kindness and respect.

He always had a smile and a laugh and he took the time to be there for others. He’d do anything for anyone at anytime.

Michael liked just about anything with an engine: cars, pickups, four-wheelers, etc. He could work on most anything. If he wasn’t turning wrenches on something, he was probably searching for the next good deal or swap.

One of his favorite “rigs” he owned was a 1984 square body Chevy 4x4 pickup. (Though he always kinda wanted a 1982 since that was his birth year). He also enjoyed target shooting and collecting different guns.

Michael will always be remembered by his generosity, kindness, work ethic and most of all, his dedication to his children and family. And of course, his laugh, goofy antics and silly grin.

Michael was preceded in death by: grandmothers: Jeanette Norton and Roxanna Perkins; grandfather, Lloyd Arnett; and uncle Kenny Arnett.

He is survived by his parents Brenda Hart and Ray (Kelly) Arnett; brother Dylan (Marcy) Hart; children Sean, Brenna, Makenna, Sienna, Beau and Rhett; grandparents, Paul and Velda Hart; uncles Bret (Debra) Hart, and Kevin Hart; aunt Dianna (Voyne) Hendrickson; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and many friends.

There will be a celebration of life for Michael at a later date. All will be welcome.

The family would like to thank all of those who have reached out with kind words, prayers, concern and offers to help, especially for his mom and kids in this tragic situation. Any memories, thoughts or stories are greatly welcome.