Michael Rueckert

After cheating death more times than seemed humanly possible, on Dec. 31, 2018, Mike died doing what he loved — skiing with his family.

Michael John Rueckert was born on May 15, 1955, to Albert and Goldia Rueckert. He graduated from South High School, served in the Japan Osaka Mission, then attended the University of Utah before earning his doctorate from Los Angeles Chiropractic College. He always slept well because he knew that if we worked hard, the Lord would bless us. He worked alongside his brothers in both serving and business his whole life.

Mike and Kendra’s marriage was “a classic tale of true love and high adventure.” He found a partner who would support him in his adventures and love him for it. For 41 years they enjoyed taking trips together, anywhere from Alabama to Iceland. Their love was shared through playing games and doing puzzles. He would frequently tell Kendra and their kids how beautiful her face is. He demonstrated his love with clever cards and gifts. Together they were unstoppable, from planning a party to serving their neighbors.

Mike was loved for his loud laugh, his wide smile and his gag gifts. He was always happiest outside — hiking red rock canyons, cruising snowy slopes, kayaking and skating on thin ice. He was often seen running long distances around Stansbury Lake. But, his greatest superpower was being a husband and father.

Mike’s faith was based on action; his personal motto was: “Get off your butt and serve!” His humor, ‘git-er-done’ attitude, and enthusiasm for the gospel was contagious. He was a scout leader, a bishop and a temple worker for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Mike and Kendra had accepted the call to depart for the Philippines Cebu Mission on Jan. 21, before Mike’s unexpected transfer.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Albert Adam Rueckert and his brother, Andy. He is survived by: his mother, Goldia; five brothers: Tom (Debbie), Dave (Ann), Jim (Becky), Rob (Sarah) and Dan (Eloana); his wife, Kendra Dee Moffett; six children: Sparkle (Nestor), Troy (Katie), Rusty (Susanna), Spring (Kaplan), Marty (Cindy) and Rondi; and a plethora of
grandchildren (15).

A viewing will be held Friday, from 6-8 p.m at the Stansbury Park Bayshore Church, 5899 Bayshore Drive. The funeral will be at the Stansbury Stake Center, 417 Benson Rd on Saturday, Jan. 5, at 11 a.m., with a viewing from 10-11 a.m. Interment will be at the Stansbury Park Cemetery.