Michael Francis Ortega

Michael Francis Ortega, age 63, of Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away on May 20, 2024. Born on June 21, 1960, in Manheim, Germany, Michael was a truly one-of-a-kind and beloved individual who touched the lives of many.

Michael was forever in the pursuit of truth, connection, and knowledge. He had a sharp wit and a knack for bringing laughter to any gathering. His unique approach to life, moving to a softer and slower beat, encouraged those around him to cherish the present moment. Michael often found solace in serving the under privileged, and there is no degree of measurement that we can use to state the impact he had in and around his community. Michael's spiritual journey and thirst for knowledge led him to study two different times at the Catholic seminary, to live a period as a Buddhist monk, and then back to the ancient Catholic brotherhood of the Penitentes. Michael earned his bachelor’s degree in human resources from the University of Phoenix. His dedication to education shone through in his work as Senior Enrollment Counselor in the School of Technology at Western Governors University, where his passion for helping others access knowledge was evident in his 10 years there. Michael helped 1,759 students graduate, which does not count the many people he trained and assisted to do the same.

Michael leaves behind his very spoiled and loved cat, Jameson Whitecloud Ortega. He is survived by his mother, Helga Ortega. By his sister Sandra, her daughters Amanda (husband Greg, children Lander and Miranda) and Cassandra (husband Jeremy, children Aaliyah, Danika, and Maximus). His brother John. His sister Debbie, and her children Brian (children Jordan, Ariel, Ryan, and Riley) Spencer (wife Knitea, daughter Vadeya) and Marisa (son Zade). His brother Henry (wife Deanna) and their children Tyler (wife Courtnee, and children Brantlee, Briggslee, and future baby girl) Erica (husband Parker) and Sierra (husband Dylan, and children Malcolm, and future baby girl). His sister Tricia (husband Hal) and their children Carson (wife Jen, and children Ava, Dakota, and Milo) and Judi. Michael was preceded in death by his father Bino (Balbino Ortega), sister Silvia, sister-in-law Candie Ortega and her daughter Jolynn Frantz, nephew Christian Foote, and many other cherished family members and friends.

A funeral service to honor Michael will be held on Thursday, May 23, 2024, at St. Therese Catholic Church in Midvale, Utah. The viewing will begin at 10:00 am, followed by a Rosary at 10:30 am, and the Funeral Mass at 11:00 am. A Graveside service at Lake Hills Memorial will follow the Mass, with a Luncheon following at St. Therese Catholic Church.

“If you want to see the brave, look at those who forgive. If you want to see the heroic, look at those who can love in return for hatred.” -The Bhagavard Gita quoted in Legacy of the Heart by Wayne Muller.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Huntsman Cancer Institute and Hospital to honor Michael's memory. (https://give.huntsmancancer.org/page/66449/donate/1)

Rest in peace, Michael. Your legacy of kindness, humor, and wisdom will forever be cherished by those who knew you.