Michael Wade Isola

Michael Wade Isola

Michael Wade Isola, beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather passed away at his home in Woodinville on January 7, 2025. He inspired many people with his positivity, determination, and faith as he battled pancreatic cancer for over two years.

Michael was born in San Francisco, CA on September 3, 1954, to Gwendolyn and John Isola. He grew up in Mt. View, CA and lived in the same house on Holly Ave from elementary school through high school. He was the oldest of three children with both a younger brother and sister, Ken and Lynn.  This year he celebrated his 70th birthday.

Michael, known as “Mike” by his friends and family, attended two years at Foothill Junior College and then transferred to UC Davis.  He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences. While earning his degree he also worked for Safeway.  He met his wife, Donna, at a square dance club activity on the UC Davis campus. They married in December of 1975.  After graduation in 1976, they moved to the Bay Area and had their first daughter, Rachel.

Michael got his first career as a Claims Adjuster for Safeco Insurance Company.  He and his family moved to Pittsburg, CA and bought their first home. They had their second daughter, Bonnie, in January of 1979. Mike was transferred to the Stockton office, and they moved to a brand-new home in northern Stockton.  He became a Pharmaceutical Sales representative for Ciba-Geigy which later became Novartis. This was the career that he loved most and stayed with until he retired.

His third daughter, Tammy, was born in April of 1987 while living in Stockton. In the summer of 1993, Mike’s territory moved south, and the family moved to Turlock, CA. Mike was a good provider for his family and enjoyed supporting their activities and interests.  He enjoyed traveling, camping, and spending time together.

In 2010, Mike and Donna moved to Woodinville, WA to be closer to family also living there. Mike was happy to get away from the central valley heat and enjoyed the cooler WA weather.

Some of Mike’s hobbies were photography, videography, watching his favorite sports teams (SF Giants, SF 49ers, and BYU teams), pouring concrete, riding his motorcycle with friends, and driving to pick up Christmas trees for his friend’s farm.  He served in callings at his Church, including teaching and leading children, youth, and adults.  He helped many people move and was known as an “expert packer” of trucks and trailers.  He was very focused on serving and assisting others throughout his life.

Michael is survived by his wife- Donna, his sister- Lynn Shull, his three daughters – Rachel McGovern, Bonnie DeGroff, and Tammy Bonner, and his three son-in-laws, Lucky, Jesse and Matthew, his seven grandchildren – Chloe, Angelina, Colden, Shawn, Rylan, Jared, and Lily, his sister-in-law – Sharon, and brother and sister-in-law – Brad and Cynthi, several nieces and nephews, cousins and lots of friends.

A Memorial will be held in his honor at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (16500 124th Ave. NE, Woodinville, WA, 98011) on January 25th, 2025, at 10:30 am.