In Loving Memory of Michael “Mikey” Foster
Michael Foster was born on December 24, 1972, in Wichita Falls, Texas, and passed away on February 12, 2026, in Pendleton, Oregon. A life that began on Christmas Eve carried the same spirit of generosity, warmth, and light that he would go on to share with everyone around him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on February 20, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute in Mission, Oregon, where family and friends will gather to honor the remarkable man he was.
Mike graduated from Reynolds High School in 1991. He went on to earn his Associate of Applied Science in Emergency Technology from the College of Emergency Services and completed his paramedic certification through Tacoma Community College. From early on, Mike felt called to serve others, a calling that became not just his profession, but his purpose.
He worked for several organizations, including ALS Yakima and the Depot, but he found his true home with the Umatilla Tribal Fire Department, where he faithfully served for 16 years. Eleven of those years were spent as a Firefighter Paramedic, and for the last five years, he proudly held the rank of Captain Paramedic. Mike was deeply committed to his community, approaching every call with courage, compassion, and dedication. To those he served alongside, he was not just a leader, but a steady presence and a trusted friend.
Above all else, Mike’s greatest devotion was to his family. He is survived by his loving mother, Bobbie Linne; his father, Kent Foster; his fiancée, Elisa, and their beloved dogs, Oscar, Minie, and Sophie, who were truly part of their family; his fiancées children, Carter and Mackenzie; his brothers Scott Foster, Neil Foster, Jontae Foster, Treshawn Linne, and Cory Linne; his sisters Katelynn Linne, Courtney Linne, Ireland Linne, and Star Linne; and his cherished nieces and nephews Christina, Hayzel, Nahkaiya, Rosalie, Melody, Adelyn, Alleia, Brandon, Reed, Wyatt, Oliver, Rory, and Milo.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents Darell and Roberta Stovall; Joyce and Kenneth Foster; and his beloved little sister, Sarah Foster.
Mike was known for the way he showed up for others. He poured his energy into the people he loved, always ready to lend a hand, offer encouragement, or simply sit and listen. His heart was generous, his spirit steady, and his love unconditional. His family often said he was the glue that held them together, the one who made sure everyone felt included, cared for, and supported.
Mike and Elisa built a life filled with love, laughter, and the companionship of their three dogs, that they adored. They especially enjoyed going to the beach and taking trips back home to visit their families, cherishing the time spent with loved ones.
Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, Mike’s legacy of service, loyalty, and fierce love will live on in the many lives he touched. He leaves behind a family strengthened by his example and a community forever grateful for his dedication.
He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in our hearts.