Michael (Mickey) Edward McHugh, 72

Michael (Mickey) Edward McHugh was born to Edward (Ted) and Pearl Meier McHugh on September 5th, 1952. He was welcomed to the world by his big sister Marilyn and followed by his younger sister Gaylene and baby brother Thomas.

While in the first trimester of pregnancy, his mother contracted German measles, leading to Mickey being born with special needs. From the beginning his mom was his biggest supporter and advocate. In the following years she and other kind hearts in the community would come together to form the Butte Sheltered Workshop, today more well known as the BSW. Mickey attended both Greeley and Washington Elementary Schools and then went on to work in various roles at the BSW.

Mickey was a man of many interests. Some of which included toys, trains, records, travel, and good food! He was always known to appreciate classic rock music and a top-notch cheese burger or hot dog. Mickey was always wanting to be on the go, whether it was just a drive around town, a camping trip, a sporting event, or a tropical vacation. His travels with family took him places that many can only hope to see such as Mexico, Hawaii, a Disney Cruise with his BSW buds, and several US states. He also looked forward to competing in the Special Olympics. Over the years some of his favorite events were the softball throw, the fast walk, and of course bowling.

The relationship that Mickey shared with his siblings was a truly special and unique one that is difficult to describe in just a few words. They had a beautiful way of driving each other completely crazy and loving and looking out for one another at the same time. After their mother Pearl passed away in 2001, his siblings were quick to hold Mickey under their wings and be there for any and all of his needs; especially Gaylene who was there to provide a stable home and day to day care for him.

Later in Mickey's life, he went to live at the Walsh Group Home in uptown Butte. Mickey outlived his life expectancy by twenty years and the loving and dedicated staff, including manager Beth Taylor, are largely to credit for this. His family was always able to rest assured he would be well cared for between visits and we are forever grateful to the staff of the Walsh Group Home and the BSW Day Program staff.

Mickey was proceeded in death by his parents Edward (Ted) McHugh, and Pearl Meier McHugh Anderson, and siblings Marilyn and Thomas.

Mickey is survived by his sister Gaylene McHugh, sister-in-law Dixie McHugh, nephews and nieces Andi (Brad) Halsten, Larry (Karla) McHugh, Amanda (Adrian) Guidoni, and Brady (Cindy Connors) McHugh, Grant cousins (Alyse, Michael, and Georgia), and many great nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind several close friends of the family who were so good to him and actively involved in his life.

A service will be held at Duggan Dolan Mortuary on Thursday, March 20th with visitation beginning at 10 am and service beginning at 11 am. Donations in Mickey's name can be made to the Butte Sheltered Workshop or any charity of the donor's choice.