Michael Thomas Spink

Michael Thomas Spink was born in Pontiac, Michigan in March 1950. His parents were Walter E. Spink and Joan O’Neil Spink, both deceased. He grew up and attended public schools in Rochester, Michigan, along with his siblings Ellen Spink and Neil Spink. Mike graduated from Rochester High School in 1968. He spent a year at Denison University in Granville, Ohio before transferring to Stanford University, where he graduated in 1972. Mike served in the United States Air Force for three years before earning his Juris Doctor from the University of Denver in 1977.

In law practice, Mike dedicated his career to helping people across the state of Idaho. His integrity earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike. With his wife and Law partner JoAnn Butler, he established two law firms, ending with Butler Spink LLP. Later in life he developed his own successful mediation practice.

Above all, he loved his family. He wrote “It would be hard to imagine a person more blessed that me”. He raised a daughter, Sara Ellen Spink, passing along many values including respect, honesty, and love. Mike shared a deep and enduring partnership with his wife, JoAnn Butler. Becoming a grandfather to Flynn Kennedy Spink, who is five years old at the time of this writing, was absolutely one of the highlights of his life.

Mike loved the mountains and the ocean, frequenting the Oregon Coast. Over the years he enjoyed many adventures with friends and family. At home he surrounded himself with art and nature, and a series of corgis. His last corgi Ernie has been a steadfast companion through the last few years.

JoAnn preceded Mike in death in 2023. Her loss deeply affected all who knew her, but Mike continued to live with courage and love, drawing inspiration from the way Jo lived in the present. He wrote that he would strive “to love each moment I have, and to love the company of those I love whenever I can”. He fulfilled this promise with mindfulness and conviction.

In July 2025, Mike’s fifteen year battle with metastatic prostate cancer came to an end. Throughout his cancer journey he remained positive, curious, and an advocate for himself and his care.

He passed away peacefully in his home, with his daughter, sister and his dog at his side.

Mike will be remembered for his wisdom, humor, kindness, and unwavering commitment to those he loved. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind. For those inclined, contributions may be made to the Cabin Idaho, the Idaho Humane Society or to the charity of your choice.