Funeral
1250 East Murray Holladay Road, Salt Lake City, UtahMonday Feb 2, 2026: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
1948 ~ 2026
Monday Feb 2, 2026: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Our beloved Michael Thorpe Bennett, age 77, passed away unexpectedly in his home on January 22, 2026. Mike was an extraordinary husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. In Mike’s eyes, nobody was a stranger, and he will be deeply missed not only by his family but by the countless people whose lives he touched, lifted, and changed.
Mike was born July 12, 1948 in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Fred (Lefty) and Elaine Bennett. He was the second of four children and was raised in a home filled with love, laughter, and a deep faith in Jesus Christ. A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mike gained a powerful and defining testimony at age 12 while gazing at the Salt Lake Temple through a hospital window prior to surgery. That sacred reassurance that he was a son of God from the Spirit anchored his faith and guided the rest of his life.
He graduated from Highland High School, where he was an accomplished athlete, competing in football and state wrestling. During these years, Mike also developed a lifelong love for music—singing and playing the guitar—something that would later become a profound source of connection, healing, and ministry throughout his life. Mike served a mission for the church in the Cumorah Mission in upstate New York, where he performed in the famous Hill Cumorah Pageant as Captain Moroni. He also had the privilege of serving as an assistant to two mission presidents whom he loved and admired deeply.
Following his mission, Mike attended the University of Utah, where he met his beautiful wife, Marlene, on a blind date at Elder Ashton’s home. He often joked that he fell in love with her when she was the only one who stayed to help Sister Ashton with the dishes. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple on July 10, 1970 for time and eternity. Ten months later, they welcomed the first of their six daughters. Mike joined the Army Reserve and later the Air National Guard for a total of 8 years of military service. Throughout his life, he remained a true patriot; he loved this great nation established under God with all his heart. During the early years of raising their family, Mike was called to serve as bishop of their ward with five of their six children in tow—balancing young parenthood with demanding service, always with devotion and love. In his free time, he and his friends formed Quintessence, a professional band they shared with their wives.
Mike dedicated his professional life to education and to seeing potential where others saw problems. At the University of Utah he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and a master's degree in social work. He remained an avid Utah football fan throughout his life...Go Utes! He began his career as a social worker at Granite Park Junior High and Granite High School, where he co-wrote the Granite School District’s truancy program—still in use today. This marked the beginning of a career defined by innovation and courage to do things differently.
Determined to understand every role within the school system, Mike taught remedial math and physical education before becoming principal of Granite District’s Alternative High School. While there, he completed his second master’s degree in educational administration. After three years, Mike was transferred to Brockbank Junior High, which had the reputation as the hardest school in the district—and absolutely loved it. He continued to change the lives of young students, especially the most troubled.
He was later appointed principal of Cottonwood High School, where he served for eight years and was affectionately known as Mr. B. Three of his own daughters chose to attend here, outside their school boundary, to spend more time with their dad. It was during this time that their 6th daughter was born and Mike was simultaneously called to serve as a stake president for eight years. At Cottonwood High School, he pioneered block scheduling, concurrent enrollment, differentiated diplomas and the ABC No Credit program. In 1994, he received the Jon Huntsman Outstanding Educator Award for his exceptional leadership. At the awards banquet, the family fondly remembered meeting Howard W. Hunter, who smiled and said, “I’ll race you,” as he walked with his walker.
Mike later worked as Director of Curriculum at the district level before applying to become superintendent of Iron County School District. Despite Marlene’s initial reluctance about this potential position, as the family sang “I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go” in church the Sunday before his interview, she felt a strong impression that a move was coming . Mike was offered the position as superintendent, where he continued his visionary leadership. He had a gift for inspiring educators through his legendary video/music presentations. In Iron County, he enhanced the community greatly: he passed bonds for a new high school, introduced concurrent enrollment and created partnerships with Southern Utah University and the Shakespearean festival, where his oldest daughter performed for 2 seasons.
During this season, Mike was also called as bishop of a young single adult ward, a calling he treasured deeply. He loved young adults and frequently welcomed them into his home for ward prayer and activities. During his time as superintendent, Mike endured numerous surgeries and serious health challenges that led to chronic pain and a dependence on pain medication. This ultimately resulted in an early retirement—a heartbreaking transition for a man whose identity and joy were deeply tied to meaningful work and service.
After retirement (with the help of his angel wife Marlene who carried him through his darkest times) Mike found renewed purpose by returning to education as a consultant. He worked with the Utah School for the Deaf and the Blind in Ogden and other schools, where he implemented the “Earning for Learning” program, a highly successful motivational initiative for struggling students. He recruited students from Weber State University to tutor those in need—once again using his gift for networking and inspiring others to join a noble cause. He later conducted a feasibility study for a school district split and completed his final education assignments as principal of Roy Elementary and North Star Academy.
Turning years of pain and recovery into profound purpose, Mike served for 15 years as an Addiction Recovery Program facilitator. During this time, he created a music therapy program to be used in rehabilitation settings. Mike believed deeply that music heals—and that when it testifies of Christ, it can become a turning point in someone’s darkest moment. Mike and Marlene served a beautiful mission together in the Salt Lake Granite Stake, blessing countless lives with their combined gifts. Mike also served as a missionary at the LDS employment center for 12 years as a career counselor and resume specialist to the very end. In fact, he called to let them know he wouldn't be able to make it in due to chest pain, just moments before he passed.
Though Mike achieved remarkable success as a leader, innovator, and educator, his greatest joy was always his family. Together, Mike and Marlene raised six daughters and cherished their growing posterity of 33 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, with two more soon to arrive. They have filled their home with music and the gospel, having frequent family gatherings with meals, games, dancing, singing and laughter. Lovingly referred to as "Bop" by his family, he cheered his heart out at every game, performance, spelling bee, award ceremony and graduation of his children and grandchildren. Everyone knows Bop as their most avid supporter and biggest fan. One of our most cherished memories is singing as a family while Bop played his guitar and he loved nothing more than spontaneous family concerts in the living room that broke out in 6 part harmony.
Mike knew how to have fun! His youthful spirit, contagious laugh and dance moves were often present at the annual family reunion at Bear Lake, where the Bennetts have attended for 50+ years. He was the beloved DJ at the family dance and made priceless video presentations of these reunions for decades. Mike was a master fly-fisherman, taught by his sweet father, an excellent golfer, and he taught all of his daughters to ski.
Mike was a spiritual giant—deeply compassionate, nonjudgmental, and drawn to the lonely, lost, and wounded. He had an extraordinary gift for helping others recognize their worth and instilled in them his belief that no one is beyond rescue. He constantly testified of Jesus Christ as a humble instrument in God’s hands and spent his life seeking out "the one". He will be most remembered for his heart--he embodied Christlike love for everyone, he had the most glorious laugh, and the best smile and hugs imaginable. There is no one quite like Mike.
Mike lives on continuing his mission on the other side of the veil using his extraordinary gifts to bless God’s children, and though our hearts are broken, it gives us great comfort to know that we will see him again.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Marlene; his six daughters and their spouses: Kristin Bennett; Kim (Lincoln) Steenblik; Keri (Greg) Christensen; Michelle (Steve) Armstrong; Melissa (Afton) Lambson; and Megan (Tim) Curtis; 33 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren, with two more expected. He is also survived by his siblings, Don (Kriste) Bennett and Betsy (Van) Pilkington.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred (Lefty) and Elaine Bennett, his brother, Fred Bennett, one infant grandchild, Zach Steenblik, 3 sisters in law and 2 beloved nieces.
Viewings will be held Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., and Monday, February 2, 2026, from 9:30–10:45 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. at the Cottonwood Creek Stake Center, 1250 East Murray Holladay Road, Murray, Utah. Internment will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery.
I was so sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. My heartfelt sympathies and prayers are with the family.
We are so sad to hear about this. We loved him. He was wonderful!! He will be missed.
Mike has been my hero for years. I was one of those friends that he lifted, encouraged, and motivated to be more. I will forever be grateful to him for his guidance and example in my career as an educator in the Granite School District.
Mike first entered my life when we served as administrators together at Brockbank Junior High School in Magna. He was the principal and I his assistant. We had a great time together and were often misidentified since we had many similar physical characteristics. I felt like his brother and he treated me that way.
The world is a better place for the life and works of this amazing friend. I will miss him but will always hold him in my heart as a close friend and brother.
I listened to an interview with Mike several years ago that touched me deeply. His powerful testimony of our Heavenly Father’s love and the healing that comes only through Jesus Christ and his atonement has stayed with me. He has touched so many lives.
We were on our way to Cedar City to supervise a high school football game. Our vehicle lost the thermostat about 30 minutes away. Called Mike, out of desperation, for directions to a repair shop. In a few minutes, Marlene called us with directions to their auto tech person. She met us at the shop. "You leave your car here. It will be repaired while you watch your team," Marlene said. She took us to the game. "You call when the game is over and we will come get you." After the game and back at the repair shop our car was waiting. "How much do I owe you?" The tech replied, "Nothing." Mike and Marlene just smiled. We were back on the road to SLC as though nothing had happened. Yet, we experienced the Master's touch from Mike and Marlene. Never to be forgotten!
Mr. Bennett (I don't think I can just call him Mike) was an amazing Principal at Cottonwood High. I served with the student council and had positive interactions with the school administration. It was wonderful reconnecting with him through my dad, Byron Fisher. We are sorry for the early departure from Earth. Condolences to his wonderful wife and family.
I am truly brokenhearted because. So much of who I am today is because of Mike Bennett. He and Marlene have been my friends to celebrate every good part of life, My substitute parents long after I lost my own, My councilor when life is too hard and unbearable and my constant reminder That I am a daughter of a loving God.
Mike was my Jr high councilor and High school principal. He would show up at my house when I didn't want to go to school and drag me swearing all the way there. He became someone I could trust as a young teen. I will never forget the day 43 years ago. I sat in his High School office, sad, crying and convinced life was not worth living. Mike listened then took a white board and marker and drew me the Plan of Salvation. He taught me the Gospel of Jesus Christ, my purpose here and that I was indeed a Child of God.
For the first time in my life I knew who I was. Mike then took me to his house to meet his wife Marlene and their 6 beautiful young daughters. Marlene instantly made me part of their family. I spent every hour I was not working with the Bennett's. Learning all I could about God, life, The Church of Jesus Christ of Later day saints, Marlene taught me how to be a mother someday, what it means to serve others completely and what TRUE unconditional Love means!
Mike was there to officiate my first marriage to Charlie, He sat in the witness Chair as Tim and I were sealed and years later signed my marriage license as a witness when I married Charlie again and He was there the day we laid my kids dad to rest, Every important event in my life Mike and Marlene were by my side.
When I went home last time, I was able to spend an afternoon and evening with them. We talked about our kids and grandkids, life, politics and God. It was one of the most special days I have had in so long. I am so grateful for those hours.
I learned of Mike's sudden passing and I wondered for a moment if I could still be strong in this world when he was not just a phone call away. Every teaching of truth, bear hug and comforting word flooded back with a resounding Yes! Because I was taught by Mike!
Rest well my dear friend. Until me meet again. ❤
Dear Marlene and your wonderful family -
How I, and all of my family love our dear “Mike”. He, and all of you have been and are such good friends and neighbors to us. We will never forget Mike and the kindnesses he and all of you have shown to us over the many long years of our friendship!!!
May Heavenly Father bless you in this sad a d difficult time! May you feel His love and the love of the Neddos, now and always!!!🙏🌻😇🙏🩷💕
Our sincere condolences go out to Marlene and family.
Mike was my mentor as I presided over a young single adult branch and while I served as his counselor for a short time. I could call President Bennett any time of the day for counsel. Despite his busy schedule, he was never rushed and made me feel that my issue was the most important of the day. His judgement, wisdom, warmth, and advise was life changing for me. Mike, along with Marlene, was generous. For years, Mike would bring Santa Clause (his father for a short time and then others) to our home on Christmas Eve to visit our son Marcus who has Down’s Syndrome. That act of charity and sacrifice of his time could have been spent with his own family. Mike and Marlene reared a wonderful family that we observed from a distance and stood as an example to our family.
We extend our love and prayers to Marlene and the entire Bennett family.
With love,
Gordon, Candy, and Marcus Flitton
I have had many opportunities because of Mike Bennett.
I started teaching math at Brockbank Jr High, then Cottonwood High, and then Taylorsville High because of his help. My husband, Kevin and I moved across the street from the Bennett’s and have enjoyed many visits and shared lots of family stories raising our children. We will miss his laughter AND his late night visits borrowing bread and popcorn!
This is sad he was a good guy . If it wasn't for him I wouldn't have graduated. My grandpa passed away a day before my graduation in 1996 of cancer. I found out as we were practicing walking. I was heartbroken as he promised to be there. I immediately handed my cap and gown to my favorite teacher, my art teacher. Mr.Bennett immediately found out. I ran to the girls room sitting next to a wall sobbing. He knocked and asked may I come in are you alone? I said yes! How did he know I was there? He was amazing find me. He knelt down and told me as I remembered, " You know, I really don't enter rooms like this but I heard and it bothered me. I do notice all my students." (I looked at him surprised! I couldn't believe he noticed me, I was on the Colt Roundup staff, but just only me) He took my hand and said yes! "I saw your struggles with your parents almost divorcing but you kept going, you excelled in many ways. I know and heard about your grandpa, life is not guaranteed like you want sometimes but I know the Atonement of Christ as I know you do and I believe your grandpa will be there, you won't see him but feel him. That's why I went and got your cap and gown back from your art teacher. You worked hard not to walk, you accomplished! Be proud and do it for him and you. If you do I will do something special for you. " I looked at him and asked what is that? Just walk and you will see. I told him my grandpa did promise he would get "special permission" he wouldn't know how but he will be there weeks before as I visited him showing him my cap and gown. He knew he would be called home. It hurt, he was my best friend. I looked up to him. Mr. Bennett looked at me with a smile and wiped my tears and said see you know he will be there. Please, arrow points forward. Show him that arrow in your heart full of love for him. I gave him the biggest hug and told him thank you! Thank you for acknowledging me and believing in me. He handed me my cap and gown fully back and said the words I will treasure always. "Thank you, I believe in you! Let's see you walk. The next day, graduation day. I did walk and did feel my grandpa as I wiped my tears before hearing my name I looked and felt him and actually smiled from ear to ear. I know this was a bit long. I just wanted to share this beautiful moment and say thank you Mr.Bennett for heart and compassion without you I wouldn't have walked and graduated. Thank you for seeing me through. Light and love to your beautiful family that holds many treasured memories. Fly and spread your beautiful wings. Thank you for your example 💜 As they say angels do walk among us and you were one. Godspeed. Thank you with so much love from all your students 💜
Hey Brother Mike, we headed to the Cumorah mission so many years ago together. Just want to send my best to your beautiful family. We will always look forward to a great reunion of the Cumorah missionaries in the hereafter. Until that time, you rest in peace my brother, and I know you will be missed.
Elder A. Drake Mortensen
Wishing you comfort and strength during this sad time. Michael was an amazing man and he will be missed. May Jesus love comfort you.
Mike and I first met over 40 years ago when I worked at Brockbank Jr. High as his Assistant Principal. During those two years we became family friends with Mike, Marlene and his growing family. Mike and I both left Brockbank at the same time, he to Cottonwood High and me to Kearns High, but we never lost touch through the years of moves and job changes. Our families remained friends and shared times boating/waterskiing, BBQs, helping with home repairs and, of course, all getting career and educational support and advise of various kinds, especially for our daughters.
Mike was always loved and respected by all our family and will be greatly missed.
So sorry for the loss of your husband, father, grandpa, and life long friend. Sending love to you. He will be missed.
If Mike were here, this would be his message!
Lift up thine eyes and .joyful be,
Tis a beautiful thing that has come to me.
My jubilant soul now soars to the skies.
There's a smile on my face, wipe the tears from your eyes.
Was there ever a time, ‘0 comrades so true.
When the sparkle of life I would hold from you.
Now once more with you, life's best I share,
I'm happy, contented, and free from care.
Oh mourn not my passing - tis better so.
Even beautiful flowers to seed must go.
They come back again, after springtime rain
To bud and to bloom so radiant again.
Tis the law of the universe, God wills it to be
Tis a plan so divine, its beauty you see
Brings us faith to perfection, in faith love, and light
Tis a glorious awakening, not a deep sleep of night.
So lift up thine eyes and joyful be,
Tis a beautiful thing that has come to me.
My jubilant soul now soars to the skies.
There's a smile on my face, wipe the tears from your eyes.
A poem by Theora Marcel ~ Feb. 2 1940
Mr. Bennett was one of my favorite principals. He was kind, listened, and was an incredible mentor. He also had great patience and was willing to participate in crazy youthful whims (like being in our dance photo). Like many, I lost touch after graduation. Years later, his family moved near my parents and I was able to reconnect. I greatly admire all his works in life, as well as his keen ability to turn challenges into strengths and opportunities to help others.
I am so sorry for your loss. His influence and love helped mold my life when I was young living on 6710 South. I owe part of who I am to his influence in his daily life. On behalf of our family. Thank you for being our neighbor. You did more than you knew.
Sandra and I will miss seeing you at Beare Lake. We're grateful for your faithful example of service and devotion to family. We love you.
I had the honor of knowing Mike for a short time through a 12 Step Program he facilitated. Every time he spoke, I cried from the spirit I could feel just radiating through this man. He was so kind and loving, always giving me hugs and saying “I love you” and “I’m proud of you” at the end of each meeting. His sense of humour, smile and laugh was indeed very contagious. I will miss him dearly. I love you, and I’m proud of you, Mike.
I was in high school with Mike; we were companions in the Cumorah Mission; I'd bump into him when we were at the U; three months ago I sat next to him at a small-group missionary reunion; and on every occasion he was inevitably of good cheer. Gone too soon; and, to his beautiful family, I'm so sorry for your trouble.
We were so saddened to hear about Mike’s passing. He was such a good man and a very positive influence in my life. Mike was the one that called me to be a bishop many years ago. I have always considered him to be a friend and a mentor. I pray that Marlene and the family will feel the encircling arms of the Savior’s love during this difficult time. ❤️🙏🙏🙏
Dear Bennett family, I want to express my heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Mike was an amazing person who shared his Hope, Faith, and Love always in the ARP meetings. He shared his love for God, Jesus, and his family. He was truly grateful. Mike will be missed! We love him! God Bless You, Diane
Sorry to hear of Mikes passing he was a good friend. We’re thinking of you all at this time of loss. Know that you are loved. We are out of town at this time so can’t come to the funeral but wish you the best.
I am so grateful for the influence of “Mr. Bennett” as I knew him at Cottonwood High School. We have several interactions during my time in high school. The most remarkable moment was when he came to be the Principal for my own children at North Star Academy. I loved that he was able to also be a part of their lives. After his time at NSA I had the opportunity to see him a few times in the temple. I am grateful for his secular and spiritual example and will miss running into him.
I was 1 of Mr. Bennett’s PTA presidents at Cottonwood. I admired him so much. He was an innovative and gifted educator. I am so sorry for your family.
To lose a father so young suddenly, is a hard burden to bear. With the help of each other & the Lord, knowing he is happy & painless you all will be OKAY ! It’s been a privilege meeting with you all at Melissa’s house a time or two. God be with you all😇
I knew Mike as a facilitator. I had attended the email Creek meeting for probably 5 years of his service.
He had helped give me a blessing at a time I very much needed it and I got his phone number and sent him a thank you text. After that he would text me now and again as a brother to tell me that I was an important part of the meeting and make me feel loved. He truly became my brother and I loved it when he would share music and was so touched by his willingness to open his heart . His family definitely came first and how often he would share family events like the Bear Lake one. It would have been fun to hear him to his music with his family. I loved the part of the funeral that I got to listen to .
I would love to have a link for the full funeral and watch it again . Thank you for sharing him with us .
Love, Patricia, one of Mike's little sheep and sisters. 8018793427
Dear Marlene and family...We were saddened to hear of the passing of Mike. What a powerful and yet gentle man he is. There was always a welcomed smile, a handshake, and time to listen to you. I pray that the Lord will comfort you with the knowledge of a joyful reunion where you will find those same wonderful qualities he possessed here.
Elder and Sister Dial
Nauvoo, Illinois
one night I was browsing through u - tube and thought nothing of it , sooo I started to watch a couple of his videos, " BUT " mannn the songs that were coming out of his heart and throat was sooo unbelievable, I never heared of him , " BUT " he could sing so very very very good , it took MY breath away, every song I watched on u - tube was sooo incredible and when he was doing shows every body started to cry [ I couldn't figure out why ] and then when I started to look for showes to see him , I found out on u - tube he recently passed away , he was 77 , he passed away January 22 of 2026 , R I P Michael Bennett, like I said He was sommmmeee singer , He was sooo unbelievable, I live in the Poconos Pennsylvania, I saw a lot of Rock Bands over the years , He took the cake , he was a Awesome brilliant performer , I am going to continue watching him on u - tube . once again R I P PEACEFULLY. AND COMFORTABLY , Great singer .😥😥😥