Michael David Thorkildsen

Michael “Mikey” or “Mike” Thorkildsen passed away on Tuesday, March 24. Michael was born in Jackson, Wyoming on April 19, 1999.

Mikey possessed a remarkable gift for connecting with others and formed friendships wherever he went. He had a natural ability to bring joy to those around him, always ready with a playful accent, perfectly timed joke, or planned out bit. His humor and personality were truly one of a kind. More than that, he made people feel at ease, included, and genuinely valued.

From the time he was little, he was deeply creative and curious, often diving headfirst into new hobbies and passions. He could recognize every license plate before he knew how to read. As a child he loved cars, trains, magic tricks, costumes, legos, doing impressions, and being kind and sweet to everyone he met. He was a little boy with the biggest heart, and he physically grew to match it. Standing at 6’4” he was known affectionately as a giant teddy bear and gave the warmest hugs. He made everyone feel safe and loved.

As an adult, Mikey loved board games and skateboarding, and he spent time playing in multiple bands. Music was a huge part of who he was. He could pick up just about any instrument, his favorites being the drums and guitar. He adored his cat Kyle, was a whiz at solving Rubik’s cubes, and loved Magic the Gathering.

Above all, Mikey loved his wife, Sami. They were married last June in Jackson Hole. He loved Sami fiercely—with a steady, protective, and deeply devoted kind of love. She was his person, and he was hers. Together, they built a life full of laughter, friendship, and a love that felt easy, natural, and strong all at once. Sami—his love for you was constant and unwavering. That love doesn’t go anywhere.

Mikey is deeply loved and will be missed by his wife, Samantha; his parents, Stacy and John; his sisters, Megan and Lindsey; his brother-in-law, Tim; and so many other family members and friends whose lives are better because of him. Mikey treasured the time he spent with his niece and nephew, Georgia and Luke, who knew him as their fun, silly “Uncle Max.” He was an incredible husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend, and his presence left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.

He will be forever loved and never forgotten.

Join us in remembering Michael, Tuesday March 31, 2026 at Larkin Mortuary in Salt Lake City, located at 260 E S Temple Street. A viewing will be held that morning from 10:00-10:45 with services beginning at 11:00 am.