1995 ~ 2025
Saturday Nov 15, 2025: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday Nov 18, 2025: 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Tuesday Nov 18, 2025: 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM
On April 25th, 1995 a new challenger entered the arena. Michael Todd Jacobsen was born in Salt Lake City, Utah to Cristi Ann Green and Todd Kimball Jacobsen. The eldest of five children, Michael grew up and spent his life in Utah, where he brought laughter, creativity, and imagination to many who knew him.
Michael was a lively character with a unique style. He was a witty soul whose humor was often sarcastic and boisterous, only to be matched by his depth of insight. He loved to observe the world around him with care, analyze it, and turn his thoughts into stories, games, and conversations that opened new perspectives for others. He embraced his unique personality with an infectious and comforting confidence. He was a great example of speaking his mind and opinions thoughtfully and being genuinely kind.
A passionate storyteller, Michael found his creative home in the world of gaming. In 2017, he launched his own YouTube channel that evolved from Kalimdori to The Duke of Dorks, and finally The Pondering Peasant. Through his channel, he explored the art and science of game design - analyzing story, music, animation, and gameplay with a uniquely thoughtful and humorous touch. He played with how to create something new by pushing possibilities. His work reached millions of viewers and fostered a vibrant online community that continues to celebrate his impact.
Michael’s curiosity extended far beyond gaming. His talents shone through his love for music, writing, art, and storytelling. As a Dungeon Master, he built elaborate worlds filled with detail, symbolism, and lore, complete with intricate hand-drawn maps, soundtracks, visuals, and voice acting. He was an avid reader, imaginative writer, and a talented performer. His creativity knew no bounds.
A gifted student, Michael graduated from Northridge High School in 2013. His intellect was undeniable - he scored a 34/36 on the ACT without studying, which was annoying to his siblings. He began his studies at the University of Utah on a Presidential Scholarship and, after taking time away, courageously returned to his education, quickly distinguishing himself once again and earning recognition in the Officer’s Circle for his promise in the sciences. Michael studied astrophysics, and aspired to make discoveries in the cosmos (which included the existence of aliens) and bridge the gap between politics and science.
In his love to create, Michael’s favorite jobs ranged from making a favorite cup of coffee, working in a steel yard, being employed as an on-site beta tester for Disney Infinity, and becoming a content creator and editor on YouTube. He also wrote for the University, moderated debates, and contributed thoughtful pieces that reflected his analytical mind and love of discourse.
Michael made friends everywhere he worked. He loved his family and friends deeply and cherished moments spent with them. He held a special bond with his grandmother, Jackie, whom he visited weekly in her last months of life. Jackie preceded him in death, along with his cousin Hillary Hope.
He is survived by his parents, as well as his four younger siblings: Sarah (Adam), Daniel, Mary (Zachary), and David. He is also survived by his nephews Brent, Tay, and Joseph, and his niece Lucy. He is also remembered with love by his many friends, professors, and 22.3K subscribers and followers in his online community.
Though Michael’s life ended far too soon, he faced his struggles with honesty, love, and courage. In his final moments, he expressed his love to everyone and promised to see us all again.
Michael, this is not “game over,” but simply your next great level - where you’re free to explore the stars you so loved. Your story will continue in all of us. Thank you for the laughter, the lessons, and the love. Until we see you again. With love, your family.
Funeral Services
A viewing will be held 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Larkin Mortuary Downtown, 260 E South Temple St, SLC, UT 84111.
A memorial service will be held from 12:30- 2:30pm on Tuesday November 18th, 2025 at Larkin Mortuary Sunset Lawn, 2350 E 1300 S, SLC, UT 84108.
Interment will take place after from 3:00-3:30 at the Salt Lake City Cemetery, where Michael will rest near his beloved grandmother Jackie and cousin Hillary.
“Be kind to yourself.” – Michael Jacobsen
Cristi,
I am heart broken to hear what happened to Michael. He was a wonderful, smart, and kind person. I want you to know how much we loved you and your family, and even though we live all the way in DC, please let us know what we can do to help. I know Michael is in the arms of his Savior, and I am praying that he is getting the peace that he was looking for.
With Love from,
Tom, Julynette, and Felix
Jacobsen Family;
My heart is with you during this time. Mike was one of my best friends growing up and although it’s been a while since I’ve seen him I’ll always cherish the memory of him and your family and the times I spent with you all. I currently live in Seattle now so I am unable to attend the funeral, but please know I am with you all in spirit and mourning. I love you all and wish you comfort, healing, and peace during this difficult time.
Hunter Halverson
My dearest condolences to the family. Michael was a great classmate and student. He was so involved in a community project in campus. He was always so eager to help and ready to collaborate when needed. A generous and kind human being. Thank you for all you did this semester Michael. We will miss you and keep you in our hearts forever.
My heart aches for your family as you grieve Michael. I’ll remember his kindness, talent and how fun he was to be around. I am grateful to have known him for a short time and am holding you all in my thoughts.
To Michael’s family and friends,
I’m so sorry for your loss. I’ve known Michael since elementary school, and I have so many fond memories of telling stories, talking about astronomy, and playing video games together. As a kid, I was often ostracized for being different, but Michael was consistently kind to me because I know he felt the same way. We became close friends throughout high school as a result.
I heard the news that Michael had passed away from one of his astronomy professors at the University of Utah. Michael was the type of person who left a huge impact wherever he went, his passion and talent exploding out of every seam. I don’t think he knew the magnitude of the positive impact he had on the Universe. By being kind and unafraid to share his passions with the world, Michael turned himself into a hurricane of positive force that inspired so many people to do the same.
Be kind to others. Be passionate about your interests. Be yourself. Change the world.
I wish I had the right words. I know Michael as a kind, intelligent person. It saddened me to hear he had passed. The world needs more people like Michael. His time here was too short and the world won’t be the same without him. My deepest sympathies to Michael’s family and friends.