Heaven got a good one. Michael Albert Magalis, age 73, passed away September 21st at Mission Hospital in Asheville North Carolina.

He was born March 23rd, 1952, in Annapolis Maryland, the oldest of 4 to the late Mr. and Mrs. Albert Magalis. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Suzanne Linda Magalis, and his sister, Patricia Elaine Brito.

He is survived by his brother, Daniel Magalis and his wife Deb Magalis, his sister, Mary Beth Arce and her husband, Michael Arce, and his special friend, Janet Lynn Martin with her little dog Milo.

Born blonde and ornery, he had an acute interest in how things worked, how to make money and how to pick on his kid brother, Dan. At the age of 5 or 6 he was often spotted with an extension cord hanging over his shoulder - ready for a task, leading to his career in the building industry. After high school, Mike took great pride in serving his country for 6 years, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant in the Army Reserves.

As Mike was advancing in his career, he and his wife Suzanne were flipping homes, helping to build their little nest egg. Richmond, Deltaville, Atlanta and Beufort were just some of the many places they called home. Mike and Suzanne found their heaven on earth here in the mountains of North Carolina. Mike was one of the best humans you might ever know. Kind, honest, creative, giving, funny, animal loving, cat- tolerating, and athletic are words that come to mind. He was quick to offer advice but not overbearing. His humor was clever and witty - just ask him! As an avid rock climber, he scaled the majority of the big walls in western North Carolina, & pioneered a number of first ascents of new routes. He completed major climbs including Castleton Tower (Utah), Devils Tower and Grand Teton (Wyoming), & the Crestone Needle (Colorado). He was a founding member of the Glenville Cashiers Rescue Squad High Angle Team. Mike was a list maker and very organized. His courage and sense of duty were unparalleled, having taken remarkable care of his ailing wife for many years. We are all better for knowing him and he will be dearly missed by all.

A very special thank you to Annette Rogers who has been a dear friend to Mike and his wife Suzanne for over 21 years. Taking care of the pets, ailing wife, and the entire household, Annette has been invaluable. Annette was more than a friend. She was and is family.

Family will receive friends Sunday, September 28th from 10:30-11am at Macon Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held at 11am in the Chapel.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.