Michael McMurtrey

Michael (Mike) Graig McMurtrey passed away on January 17, 2024 at the age of 64 in Provo, Utah. His battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his courage in facing life challenges with a smile. Mike came out a hero and stayed strong until the end.

Mike was born June 24, 1959 to Robert Max McMurtrey and Lavenda Fox McMurtrey in Idaho Falls, ID. In his youth (1968) the family relocated to Shoshoni, Wy. While in High School he was an athlete and participated in wrestling and football. Mike graduated from Shoshoni High School in 1977. After High School he attended Rick's College in Rexburg, ID, and Central Wyoming College in Riverton, WY. Mike started working in the oilfield in 1978. He broke out with Dixieland Drilling. Mike remained with the company through all the buyouts and finished his 40 year career with Nabors Drilling as a Superintendent. Mike's work ethic and loyalty were unmatched.

In 1978 he married Debra (Deb) Forster. Though Mike and Deb's relationship wasn't permanent, they had two sons they both adored. In 1979 Mike and Deb had their first child, son Michael (JR) Graig McMurtey. 3 years later they had their second child, son Bryan (Bubba) Robert McMurtrey. In 1988 the family moved to Evanston, Wy. Where Mike would call home for the rest of his life.

In 1996 he Married Victoria Medina who brought to the marriage 3 more children he adored and they were blessed to call Dad. Dorie, Johnny and Jason along with JR and Bubba were the most important things in his life.

Those unions also brought his grandchildren which may have very well exceeded the ranks of his children hands down. James (Alysa), Jake, Jessica, Micah, Tea, Kiya, Myia, Shannon, Estasia Basse, Dustin Coleman, Marci and Dean Roseldal, and Triston Segovia, may have very well been the apple of his eye. His love for all people was evident, but his love for grandkids surpassed many things. He was also blessed with three great grandchildren. Everli Medina, Keaton Medina and Zaya Segovia.

Mike (Papa) also loved to go hunting and fishing, work on cars, going for road trips and drives, and making sure he knew the best place to have ice cream along the way. Many of these adventures included some or many of his favorite people coming along. He also was always accompanied by his fiercely loyal companion Allie.

Mike is survived by his siblings Betty Dodds, and Nyle Mcmurtrey. Also sister-in law Lydia Archibeque,and brother-in laws ElDore Sayler, Teri Schamber. He is also survived by his children, JR (Jenny), Bubba (Monica), Dorie (Russell), Johnny (Tracy), and Jason (Christine). He is also survived by his grandchildren and his beloved dogs Allie and Boots. Mike is also survived by many nieces and nephews That loved him deeply.

Mike was preceded in death by his wife Victoria McMurtrey, his parents, also sisters Kathy, Linda, Terry and brother Bob.

Mike did not know many strangers and was always willing to jump in and help whenever it was needed. He was known by Mike, dad, Mikey, papa and I'm sure many others! He will be missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held March 2, 2024 at 12pm at the Evanston Roundhouse with a luncheon to follow.