Michelle Lin Hochhalter 34, of Meridian, Idaho, passed away on August 25, 2015. Michelle is survived by her son Emery Brenner of Meridian, her parents, John and Nancy Hochhalter of Nampa, brother Ben (Heather) Hochhalter of Meridian, sister Holly (Benjamin) Johnson of Boise, and brother Daniel (Katie) Hochhalter of Meridian, along with grandparents, aunts & uncles, nieces and nephews, and cousins -- all who played a vital role in Michelle's life. Michelle was born on June 8, 1981 at Saint Luke's Hospital, Boise, Idaho. She was full of energy, life and laughter. Her parents recall she didn't walk, she bounced! She enjoyed spending time with her siblings and parents, had a happy childhood filled with love, and was also blessed with a large extended family on both sides that made for many fun memories. While attending Meridian High School she was very involved in music, singing in the concert choir and jazz choir, and in school musicals. She loved to run (nick-named Michelle The Gazelle for her speed!), and ran hurdles on the school track team. She was also very active in the LDS church, and was involved in the LDS seminary program and loved studying the scriptures. Her son Emery was the light of her life. Her happiest moments were when she was spending time with her son. They had a very close relationship. Whether camping, or baking cookies, reading together, or just being buddies they were a team. Having Emery in her life brought her immense joy and peace. She was an incredibly involved participant in her niece's and nephew's lives. Her role as aunt will be dearly missed. Her sarcastic sense of humor was contagious, as was her laugh and smile. From a very young age she was keenly aware of other's. She had an ability to be empathic and reached out to serve others where ever she saw a need. She carried this with her and developed it as an adult. She served on the local board for The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and made presentations throughout the valley to community organizations and schools helping educate the public about mental health issues and awareness. She also served several years as a volunteer for the Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline, and facilitated counseling groups with individuals suffering from mental illness. Additionally, she was employed as a Community Based Rehabilitation Specialist, where she worked directly with those suffering with mental health issues. We will greatly miss our dear Michelle. We look forward to the hereafter when we will be together again with her for all eternity. Service: 1:00 P.M. Friday, September 4, 2015 LDS Chapel located at 88 South Happy Valley Road, Nampa, Idaho
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