Born in 1941 in San Francisco, Mike’s roots were firmly planted in Ogden, Utah. He was a proud graduate of Ogden High School’s class of 1959, where he played basketball for the Tigers and was affectionately known by close friends as the “Cream o’ Weber.” His legendary work ethic was forged early as he worked the Southern Pacific Railroad in order to help pay his way through medical school. He attended Weber State College and graduated from the University of Utah, where he earned his MD in 1966.

Mike’s professional life was defined by excellence, honesty, and service. He served as a Major in the U.S. Army Medical Corps in Germany from 1970 to 1973 before returning home to become a pillar of Utah’s medical community. As a radiologist, he was board-certified in both diagnostic radiology and radiation oncology. He served as Chief of Radiology at the University of Utah, then in private practice as Chief of Radiology at Pioneer Valley Hospital. He held leadership roles with the Utah State Radiological Society and was elected to Fellowship in the American College of Radiology in 1993.

After “working like hell” for over 40 years, Mike retired in 2007, beginning a joyful chapter he called “Coming Out of the Darkroom… Into Daylight.” This era was dedicated to the outdoors, his many intellectual pursuits, and his unwavering loyalty as a diehard University of Utah sports fan. Mike was also a sophisticated student of the West, with a deep passion for art of the West, Native American art, and artifacts. An avid sportsman, he spent his time fly fishing Western rivers, hunting geese at the Chesapeake Duck Club, and saltwater fly fishing. Throughout his life, he was a true lover of Labradors, sharing many of his favorite years in the field with his loyal hunting dogs. Many of his happiest hours were spent alongside his brother Bill, who was his favorite fishing and hunting partner.

Above all, Mike’s greatest pride was his family. He especially loved traveling the world with the love of his life of 58 years and creating many wild and crazy memories with his three girls. Sons-in-law brought some needed testosterone to the family, and his grandkids kept him busy with gymnastics, football, volleyball, lacrosse, band, and the arts.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Becker Edson, and their three daughters:

• Missy (Thad Reeves) of Phoenix, AZ, and daughters Madeleine and Gracie

• Sarah of Park City, UT, and her children Smith and Ella

• Erin (Mike Ruzek) of Park City, UT, and their children Becker and Sage

He is also survived by his brother Bill and his sister Carol Sue.

Mike leaves behind a world made better by his service and a family who will continue to share his stories for generations. Cheers to never-ending fishing spots off old roads where the sun is always out and the water is always clear.

Celebration of Life: Monday, February 23 • 6-00 to 9:00 pm • Rice Eccles Stadium, Ken Garff University Club, U of Utah, (*venue has requested guests bring I.D. to enter). Arrangements are entrusted to Starks Funeral Parlor. Please share your memories with his family at www.starksfuneral.com.

To honor Mikes generous spirit and lifelong commitment to helping others, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to The Nature Conservancy. Your support will continue the work that meant so much to him. A special thanks to Huntsman Home Hospice and Love at Home Caregivers.