Born in Juneau, Michelle Bonnet Hale moved with her family when she was 11 to Craig and then Tokeen, on a remote island off Prince of Wales Island.

She worked in the family businesses from the age of 12, fishing, buying fish, working in the store and at the gas dock. She still holds a hand troll permit.

She attended and graduated high school via home schooling and, when she was 19, returned to Juneau.  Her 30-year career has been in water quality.

With a business partner, Michelle recently purchased the custom framing shop Picture This. This venture and her continuing assembly work are keeping her very busy.

Michelle is married to the delightful Jane Hale, and they share a duplex with her mother. She has five stepchildren and two dogs.