Michael (Mike) Lee Graves:  Born August 13, 1960, to William and Shirley Graves, Kennewick, WA. He passed to Heaven on Tuesday, September 14, 2021 at the Chaplaincy Hospice House in Kennewick, WA., from Respiratory Failure.

Mike graduated from Kamiakin High School in 1979.  He began serving the community as a professional firefighter.   Mikes 28 years of experience; included wild land to radiological firefighting.  He was also a member of the PFRA (Professional Fire Fighters Rodeo Association).

In 1991 he began his tenure with the Horse Heaven Round-up Rodeo until he retired from the committee in 2015. Mike also served with the Columbia Cup Hydro Plane Races as a member of the Columbia Cup Rescue as assistant water ops., for 15 years. Mike worked as a police and firefighter for the Walla Walla Airport.  He ended his career as a firefighter and went to work for the Tri-City Animal Shelter as Animal Control Officer. He holds many certificates and degrees connected to his careers.

Mike is survived by his Daughter, Amanda Stark, and Sons, Michael Graves, Justin Smith and Daughter-in-law Kaylie Smith. His sisters, Lore Brackensick, Lisa Hall, and Michaele Patterson.   Brother-in-law Bret Patterson, Nephew Shawn and three Niece’s, Christina, Elizabeth, and Ashley, plus many Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins.

Mike is proceeded in death by his Mother and Father, William and Shirley.  His Sister Donna, and Niece Jennifer.  His Paternal Grandparents, Graves, and Maternal Grandparents, Sears.

In lieu of flowers a donation in Mikes name to either Breast Cancer Awareness, and/or the Firefighters Fund.