Michael Moon Willey

Our husband, father, grandfather, and family patriarch passed away peacefully February 28, 2018, surrounded by his family.

Michael was born to Elizabeth Moon and Raymon B Willey April 26, 1950.  As a mischievous and adventurous young boy, he made memories and friendships lasting a lifetime.  Mike developed a talent and love for music at a young age.  Starting with the piano, he soon moved to the banjo and guitar. In 1964, The Muddy Gutter Boys trio was formed with lifelong friends Bruce Kizerian and Robert Ellis. The group entertained thousands over the next 50 years. Mike’s keen sense of tune led him to also play the ukulele, harmonica, cajon drums, kazoo, and all the fine crystal glasses at holiday dinners.

While attending Viewmont High School Mike earned the rank of Eagle Scout and most importantly, he met his sweetheart Terri Jean Israelsen. Their courtship continued from a distance while Mike served as a missionary in the British England East Mission. Shortly after returning home, Mike and Terri were married for time and eternity in the Salt Lake Temple on May 26, 1972.

As a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mike loved family history and had opportunities to serve as a primary teacher, bishopric counselor, scoutmaster, high priest group leader and as bishop. He loved to serve and was able to positively influence thousands of lives in the process.

Mike’s desire to work hard and provide for his family led him to a successful career as a commercial journeyman plumber and member of UA Local 140.  He finished his 38 year career as a safety director for Mechanical Service and Systems, Inc. During the summer months, he continued to work hard gardening on his childhood property where he harvested produce to donate to family, friends, neighbors and food pantries.
Mike continued his father’s passion for the outdoors.  He loved camping, fishing, and exploring nature. He grew to treasure the many road trips he spent with Terri traveling the western United States and Canada. Whether it was for work or to visit family in California, he always wanted Terri by his side.

Retirement allowed him time to focus on his musical talents. Often referred to as his “happy place,”  Mike could often be found in his wood shop where he built over a dozen guitars and several cajon drums, some with wood harvested from old family properties.

Mike is survived by his loving wife Terri, children Trevor and Lisa Willey, Jonathan and Rebecca Willey, Larisa and Christopher Adams, Kristen Willey, Clark and Ashley Willey, fifteen adored grandchildren, and siblings Shirley Secrist, Paul, Steve, Lynn and Craig Willey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymon and Elizabeth.

Funeral Services will be held Friday, March 9, 2018 at 11:00am at the Bountiful 43rd Ward, 990 North 100 West, Bountiful, Utah. Family and friends may visit Thursday, March 8, 2018 between 6:00pm and 8:00pm at Russon Brothers Mortuary, 295 North Main, Bountiful, or Friday from 9:30am to 10:30am at the church. Interment will be at the Bountiful City Cemetery.