Interment
Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery, 1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, UtahSaturday Jan 10, 2026: 1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
1942 ~ 2026
Saturday Jan 10, 2026: 1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Our beloved dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend passed away on January 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous, years-long battle with multiple forms of cancer. Mike was an example of courage, strength, and optimism, even in the face of the most difficult circumstances.
Mike was born on January 17, 1942, in Montpelier, Idaho, to Cloyd and Rula Minor. He married his best friend and eternal companion, Lucille Miller, on August 5, 1966, in the Idaho Falls Temple. Mike and Lucille were inseparable until her passing in 2015. Together, they shared a life full of love and adventure, boating at Lake Powell on his beloved boat, the “Lucy Mae,” traveling the world, serving faithfully in the LDS Church, and enjoying long drives with a Diet Coke in hand. They raised three children, who were the pride and joy of their lives, and embraced their children’s spouses as their own. Mike and Lucille were true examples of loving, righteous parents. Mike was also a proud grandfather to four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Affectionately known as “Grandpa Mike,” he always asked about his grandkids and reminded everyone to “give them a kiss for me.”
Mike faithfully served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the North East British Mission from 1960 to 1962. He loved the people he served and treasured every moment of his mission. Throughout his life, Mike honored that time in a unique way, by proudly wearing an English flat cap. A dear friend and neighbor recently shared that whenever he dons his own English flat cap while serving a mission in England with his wife, he thinks of Mike and the lasting example he set.
Mike graduated from Utah State University as an automotive and mechanical engineer and began a distinguished career at Kennecott Copper, where he worked for over 40 years. He loved Kennecott and considered it his second home. In his front yard stood a carved tree stump engraved with the symbols of Utah State and Kennecott, a testament to his pride in both. His family fondly recalls his excitement whenever he was called to help with a train derailment or other emergencies requiring his expertise. Upon retirement, Kennecott honored him by naming one of its large shovels “The Marion.” Mike proudly displayed a replica of the Marion and other shovels in his den. His career gave him purpose, happiness, and lifelong friendships he deeply cherished.
Mike was a true jack of all trades and mastered most of them. He could fix and repair anything. Neighbors and friends could count on Mike to help them in times of need to repair and fix many things including cars, damaged phone lines, plumbing issues, and about anything you can think of. His garage was a masterpiece, you could find any tool you could possibly need and replacements of most. He loved spending time in his garage tinkering or just organizing his tools. Every tool had its place, and he knew instantly if one was missing.
Fishing was Mike’s favorite pastime. He especially loved trips to Strawberry Reservoir, whether in summer or ice fishing in winter. His big smile while showing off his latest catch will never be forgotten. He spent countless hours preparing his boat and gear, ensuring every outing was enjoyable for all. Many friends and family members share cherished memories of time spent with Mike on the lake.
Mike was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served as an ordinance worker in the Draper Temple and found immense joy in dedicating his time to the Lord. He loved the gospel of Jesus Christ and drew peace and strength from the Plan of Salvation. When discussing a recent cancer diagnosis, he told his doctor, “I know I have an ace in the hole in the Plan of Salvation.” Mike had a firm testimony that he will be reunited with his eternal companion, Lucille. His love for the Savior brought him comfort and peace, even through the trials of cancer and the loss of his beloved wife. Mike remained faithful to the end, a perfect example to his family and friends. He never complained, fought valiantly, and lived as a true disciple of Jesus Christ
Mike is survived by his daughter Cindy Morrey (Tyler), sons Kirk Minor (Marilynn) and Nate Minor (Teresa), and his brother Steve Minor (Barbara). He is also survived by two granddaughters (Kinsey and Kaylee), two grandsons (William and Emmett), and two great-grandchildren (Nixon and Lucille Mae). He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Lucille, and his parents.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 10th, at 12:00 Noon at the Telford Ward, 1834 East Creek Road, Sandy, UT. A viewing will be held immediately prior to the services from 10:30 – 11:45 AM at the church. Interment Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery.
So sorry about Mike‘s passing. I have fond memories of growing up with him and always enjoyed his company. My condolences to his family.
I recall when Portal Way was graded and new homes were built. When this happened we longer had a "pond" that would develop after a storm (at the bend where Bob and Pam Long lived) and we could no longer go "tubing" on the foothill.
When the Minor family moved in, Dad and I were their hometeachers. This is the first priesthood assignment that became a joy to me - because Mike and Lucille welcomed us warmly.
I also remember when Mike was injured at Kennecott and what it felt like to be unsure if a person could survive, and then thrive, after such an event. I was, and remain, inspired by his tenacity and determination.
Blessings to Mike's family,
I learned so much about being patient with young men from Mike Minor. He always had the know-how and the right tool to fix just about everything we broke. I’ll never forget waterskiing behind the Lucy Mae at Lake Powell and Mike’s patience while I learned to get up on one ski.
He always welcomed “the boys” to his house and I can still hear his voice saying, “Hello, Kev!”