Mike was the man. And he also rocked.
Michael, master of all four elements, spent his time outside in the natural world. His charisma brought his closest friends to the farthest corners of the forest, trails, and the world.
He took his friends and family with him on epic adventures, convincing everyone they could accomplish feats they never thought they could — from backpacking the Teton Crest Trail, to mountain biking (anyplace from Lory State Park to Switzerland to Jonkershoek Nature Reserve in South Africa, to Trestle Bike Park, to Bentonville in Arkansas, and Ireland). Michael challenged others and had a way of convincing first-time bikers and hikers to adventure.
On any given day you could find Michael biking around Fort Collins, wearing his cut off jorts & pit vipers, on his way to a local bar to share a pint with a friend. Michael brought people together — after moving to Fort Collins from the other side of the country, friends and family followed him. He built a community wherever he went.
Life was more fun with Michael. He could turn any mundane task into an exciting adventure. Michael always knew exactly when to check in with the people he loved — whether they needed him to distract them with his goofy jokes and funny stories or if they needed to unload heavy burdens. Michael was a great listener and developed deep one on one connections with almost everyone he met. He wasn't afraid to ask the serious questions, and people felt safe when they were with Michael. Oftentimes, he was the first person people would open up to about their struggles.
Michael was a beacon of inspiration and friendship to those around him, he was quick to love and challenge those around him. His sense of adventure was palpable, and those around him gravitated to whatever he may set his mind to next.
Above all, Michael cared deeply for all of the people in his life. He loved his wife Haley, his family, his friends and pets.
Michael was preceded in death by his father Mark and lives on through his wife Haley, mother Judy, siblings Erin and David, his dog Birdie, and all of his extended family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, Michael and his family would like you to consider donating to the Overland Mountain Bike Association (OMBA), a biking foundation dear to his heart. Link to donate below.
Dedicated Donation Page:
https://www.coloradogives.org/story/4yxa5g
Celebration of Life Details:
Date: Thursday, December 11th, 2025
Time: 12:00pm - 3:00pm
Location: Road34 - 1213 West Elizabeth St, Fort Collins, CO 80521