Michael Nugent

Mike Nugent, 72, passed away December 11, 2014 with his family by his side. Dad was born July 9, 1942 in Yale, Oklahoma to Gene and Opal (Boyles) Nugent. He was raised in Zillah area, the oldest of four boys. He met his love, Judy Oswalt, in 1958. They married in 1960, sharing 49 years together until Mom died in 2009. Dad began his career in the Yakima Fire Department in 1965, retiring as an YFD Battalion Chief in 1992. After retirement, they camped/fished for a while until Dad decided he needed to get busy again. Dad had several side jobs over the years including a gumball machine route, fencing, trenching, farming, and surplus-salvage. He loved acquiring and working on machinery (tractors, trailers, loaders, etc.) Dad was a big presence, filling the room with his engaging grin, teasing, and laughter. He touched many lives. He loved his family, taking time to hug and chat with his kids, grandkids, and brothers. He was so proud, taking great pleasure in watching us grow. Great times sitting in the back yard, having a glass of ice tea/coffee and chatting. Dad is survived by his son Mike Darren (Trisha) Nugent and daughters Janay (Curt) Thorne and Clarissa (Jess) Wolfe; grandchildren Starlyn (Raj) Kakkar, Alea (Dylan) Ullery, Garrett (Sam) Thorne, Tanya (Rich) Startin, Ethan (Whitney) Nugent, Spencer and Evan Wolfe; 8 great grandchildren; brothers Don Nugent, Steve (Carol) Nugent, and Gord (Renee) Nugent; his Oswalt in-laws; and numerous nieces and nephews. Dad was preceded in death by his wife Judy Nugent, his parents Gene & Opal Nugent, his older baby brother Ronnie Nugent, and his in-laws Al & Edith Oswalt. Valley Hills Funeral Home, 531 S. 16th St., Sunnyside, is handling Dad's services. Visitation will be held from 4-8pm Friday, Jan 2. Funeral services will be at 10am on Saturday, Jan 3. Burial will be at Sunnyside Cemetery, and a reception will follow at the funeral home. Thanks for a wonderful life, Dad. You were fabulous. You taught us well, and we'll do you proud. Love you. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Michael Nugent, please visit our flower store.