Michael Munoz, 95, of Reno, Nevada died April 29, 2023, in Reno, Nevada.

Michael Munoz was born on August 1, 1927, to Manuel and Ortencia Munoz in Nisland, SD. Mike, as he was known by to family and friends lived a good, long life. He was brought up in the Catholic Church, and recently shared some stories with his daughter, Marci about when he attended Catechism as a young boy.

Before Mike was old enough to work in the mines, he carried water to the mines for the miners to drink. Mining was in his blood, and he always had a terrific work ethic.

Mike enlisted in the U.S. Navy when he was a young man and attended Submarine School. He proudly served during WWII, as well as in the Korean Conflict, receiving several medals. Mike was also a huge fan of learning, and he continued his education well into his 60s.

On June 30, 1956, Mike married the love of his life, Irene Heppler. They had 5 amazing children together, Marci, Michael, Manuel, Monica, and Monte. Mike was a hard worker and wonderful provider. He worked as an underground miner until going to work for MSHA. He retired from MSHA in 1991 after 35 years.

Mike loved fishing and spending time with his family. He sure knew how to have fun, and he had the sweetest smile you've ever seen. Mike and Irene selflessly helped to raise her two oldest granddaughters, instilling priceless values into their lives that they are so thankful for to this day. Mike meant so much to so many people. Everyone really enjoyed when he would tell stories about his past. He was a fountain of information, a living history book.

For the last several years of his life, his daughter Marci cared for him with the help of her brothers, Manny, and Monte. Sacrificial love flowed freely in the Munoz home.

Michael is survived by his children: Marci Cortes, Michael, Manny, and Monte Munoz; son-in-law, Paul Wehr; 6 grandkids: Cecilia (Aaron) Cortes-Pavey, Constancia Cortes, Michael (Taren) Wehr, Paulie (Amy) Wehr, Randall Wehr, and Amber Munoz-Romero; several great-grandchildren; and even some great-great grandchildren; sisters, Martha, Diane, Mary, Vera, and Margaret; many brothers-in-law; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel and Ortencia, wife, Irene, daughter, Monica, sisters, Eleanor, and Jenny, and brothers, Manuel, Danny, and Phillip.

Michael will be remembered fondly as a man of integrity, with a heart of gold, supportive, and encouraging. We miss him dearly, but we are taking comfort in knowing that he is resting peacefully in the arms of Jesus forever more.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church with a visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. and a rosary to begin at 10:30 a.m.

Interment with military honors will be at 2:30 p.m. at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.

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