Michael Gerard Gallegos 'Mikey'
May 18, 1983 - February 12, 2024
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Michael Gerard Gallegos, who departed from this world on February 12, 2024, at the age of 40, surrounded by his loved ones. He was a cherished son, a devoted brother, a beloved uncle, and a true friend whose presence filled our lives with warmth, love, and laughter.
Born on May 18, 1983, Michael brought joy and happiness to all who knew him. In his younger years, Michael enjoyed participating in sports, including basketball, baseball, and karate. Michael possessed a natural talent for video games, sparked by the excitement of receiving his first gaming console, a Sega Genesis, as a Christmas gift during his childhood. This passion persisted into adulthood, when he bonded with his closest friends over late-night gaming sessions. Michael's unwavering dedication to fostering camaraderie and community was evident in his tireless efforts to organize events, most notably showcased through his leadership roles in the Greek Sports League and his devoted involvement in his fantasy basketball league. Michael would openly acknowledge that winning the championship, in either event, was his foremost goal. Nonetheless, it remains true that the enduring memories and strong sense of community born from these experiences deeply touched the lives of many. Michael's deepest passion lay in music, evident from his early days as a dedicated collector of CDs. Over the years, this passion evolved into a routine of attending a plethora of concerts, ranging from punk rock shows to contemporary Christian, Greek, reggae, and classical performances. Michael also indulged in his passion for playing poker during his leisure hours, particularly favoring Texas Hold ’em. Leveraging his competitive nature and cunning bluffing abilities, Michael consistently outmaneuvered his opponents, leaving the table as the big winner. Michael's kind and compassionate spirit, coupled with his infectious smile, left an indelible mark on the lives of everyone he encountered. His boundless love and dedication to family radiated through every gesture he made.
Michael graduated from Olympus High School in 2001 and earned his bachelor’s of science degree in Finance from the University of Utah in 2006. Michael embarked on his professional journey at Morgan Stanley, where he obtained numerous FINRA licenses. After years of dedication at Morgan Stanley, he embraced a new chapter with Northwestern Mutual's compliance department. In 2019, Michael's career path led him to Team Westover, where he was instrumental in aiding countless clients with their financial planning objectives. Michael took pleasure in his career, deriving immense satisfaction from utilizing his financial expertise to aid others. Throughout his cancer treatments, Michael's dedication to his work never faltered, and he persisted in his professional responsibilities without hesitation. His work not only provided him with a sense of purpose but also deepened his bond with his team members.
In May 2022, Michael was diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer. Fueled by his competitive nature, Michael was determined to be a warrior and fight the good fight for as long as possible. His care team at Huntsman Cancer Hospital, his family, his friends, and his French bulldog, Bowser, all played a significant role during Michael’s battle against cancer. Bowser stood by Michael as his unwavering and loyal companion, serving as both his pride and joy and a source of comfort during moments of distress. Michael remained positive and strong through his many rounds of chemotherapy, clinic visits, CT scans, procedures, and one hospitalization. His unwavering strength and positivity surprised all those around him. After going through all possible treatment options, Michael entered hospice care on February 1, 2024. The staff from Huntsman at Home and Community Nursing Services, family, and friends helped Michael during his final weeks of life. Michael remained strong in his Christian faith throughout his battle with cancer.
As a son, Michael was a source of pride and joy to his parents, Gerard and Klea. With his contagious laughter and genuine affection, he filled their lives with light and happiness. His love was limitless, a steady presence offering support and comfort whenever it was required. As a brother, Michael was a constant source of love and guidance to his siblings, Amanda and Paul. Whether in times of triumph or adversity, he stood as a pillar of strength beside his siblings, their unbreakable bond serving as a testament to the enduring love and connection they held dear. As an uncle, Michael was Athena’s steadfast companion and playmate, always ready to dive into her world of imagination and discovery. His presence brought laughter and joy into her life, and she will forever cherish the moments they spent together. Michael may no longer be with us, but the effects of his love and kindness will continue to resonate far beyond the family circle. His presence touched the hearts of all who crossed his path, leaving behind a tapestry of memories that will be treasured for generations to come. Michael's legacy of kindness, generosity, and love will inspire us to live with compassion and empathy. While we mourn the loss of his physical presence, we take solace in knowing that Michael's spirit will endure the love he shared and the lives he touched. May he find eternal rest, cradled in the love that surrounds him.
Michael is survived by his parents, Gerard and Klea Gallegos; his siblings Amanda (Stephanie) and Paul (Jasmine); his niece Athena; his godparents Mike and Joann Katsanevas; his godson Steven Amos Allard; and his Frenchie, Bowser. Michael is preceded in death by his Papou Stylianos E. Tzeranakis, Yiayia Amalia Vrondakis Tzeranakis, Yiayia Maria Gialedakis Tzeranakis, Grandfather John M. Gallegos, Grandmother Eleanor H. Gallegos, Uncle Steve S. Tzeranakis, Aunt Mary Tzeranakis, and Uncle George Tzeranakis.
A visitation to honor the memory of Michael will be held on Monday, February 19, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, in Millcreek with a Trisagion service at 7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, February 20th at 11:00 AM at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 279 South 300 West, in Salt Lake City. Interment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 1342 East 500 South, also in Salt Lake City. Following the interment, a Makaria (memorial luncheon) will be held at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral fellowship hall at approximately 1:30 PM to celebrate Michael's life. The family extends a gracious invitation to all who are able to attend and commemorate his memory. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Michael’s memory to either St. Anna Greek Orthodox Church, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Colorectal Cancer Alliance, or Huntsman Cancer Institute.
May Michael’s Memory be Eternal.
In Loving Memory
My dear friends, I am so sorry for your great loss. Your example of unity and love for Michael is an inspiration to me. May God bring peace and rest to your hearts. All my love.❤️
Gerald,Klea Sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers ❤️
I am so, so sorry to hear this about your son! Loss is so very hard. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Klea, Gerard and family my deepest sympathy and love to you all! I'm just heartbroken that this has happened to your family. Sending love and prayers for peace and grace.
What a gift it was for our neighborhood to know Michael and Bowser. Michael's warmth and kindness made every day better for his being a part of it, and he will be remembered and missed.
Gallegos Family, I am heartbroken to hear this news of Michael's passing and my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Reflecting on the incredible gift that his spirit was to this world, I think of the memories we had as junior goya dancers and how he truly was the embodiment of joy and light, greeting everyone with that bright caring smile. He leaves a great legacy of love. May his memory be eternal.
Klea & Gerard & Family, I was heart broken to hear of Michael's passing. His smile was so big, always having a genuine greeting when you we met. He was such a kind, loving and genuine friend to everyone. God knows his heart and soul, his memory will last forever in everyone's heart that knew him. LeiAnn
Michael Gallegos was an exceptional human being; among the finest I have ever had the privilege of knowing. I will always remember the late night poker tournaments, the Greek Festival celebrations and the indelible mark he left on basketball teams in the GSL. Michael was generous with his time, added life to every party and was always there with a kind word and empathy in the moments it was needed. These traits are carried by both his siblings and are a testament to the amazing job Klea and Gerard have done as parents. I am so so sorry for your loss. This is the most unfair and inhumane thing that can afflict any family and my heart breaks for you. Please find support in each other and in all people that love you and who were touched by Michael. I will carry his memory with me always.
Dear Gerard and Klea, and all of your family, and friends! It was heartbreaking to learned of your son, Michael passing, we send our deepest sympathy with your child's loss! We pray God will comfort you all at this difficult time. May his memory be eternal+ Leo and Ludmila Davis
I'm so sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Klea and Gerald!! I am so sorry for your loss, Michael will be so missed. You and your family will be in my thoughts.I am incredibly saddened to hear about Michael’s passing. I am devastated by this news.I cannot imagine how you must feel right now.Michael was a wonderful person and I am so sorry to hear of their passing. I am here to help you with any need you want.❤️
Dear Klea and Gerard, I was so sorry to hear of your son, Michael's passing. He sounds like a wonderful person, a loving father, and passionate about the zeal in life. May the memories you hold close sustain you in grief, and bring comfort down the road. My condolences, Audrey Makris
Klea: To you and your husband , I am so very very sorry for your loss. What a wonderful tribute to your son. I just read the obituary and your son was amazing. Klea, if Hallsey were here he would have the right words. I am not so good. He thought so much of you. I don't think the pain goes away Klea but maybe in time or at least for me it softens over time. I think there will always be a hole in your heart. I send my love to you and even if Hallsey isn't here I send his love to you anyway. Edna Hallsey
Gallegos Family, I am so sorry for your loss. We are praying for you and sending love during this challenging time. He was a ray of light and will be remembered in our community. May his memory be eternal. Alethia
Klea and Gerard: Im so sorry to hear of Michael's passing. Cancer is one of the most heartbreaking diseases of all. From memories, he coached my son Nick's basketball games and he had a grest heart when it came to the kids. He was sweet, well-mannered and had personality +. Myheart aches for you. God bless you and your family and maybhis memory be eternal. With heartfelt love, Cindi & John Keane
Dear Klea, Gerrard & Family - Chris and I send our heartfelt condolences and strength during this painful time. May his memory be eternal. Trish Kapos, Chris Pullos
Michael quickly turned into a lifelong friend when we met at Morgan Stanley. We kept in touch almost monthly after we left. Many lunches as we progressed through our professional lives over the past 12 years. I will miss his positive and always supportive attitude. Rest in peace my friend.
I am grateful to have had Mike in my orbit. He helped me in so many ways. His guidance helped me be better at my job, and his friendship made Salt Lake feel like home. We all have people in our lives who get us through the hard times and Mike was one of those people for me. I will never forget his radiant smile, infectious laugh, or unending sarcasm.
I was lucky to have my life touched by Michael. Always respected, always loved, and always the life of the party - unless you needed a shoulder to cry on or life advice - then he was there for that too. What an immense loss for your family and for those who know him. May his memory be eternal and live on through all of us who were lucky enough to know him and have our life paths cross. Zoi se sas.
Gerard and Klea, My thoughts, Prayers and deepest condolences to your family and the entire Gallegos family. I met your son only once at a Gallegos Family Reunion. Michael's smile will be missed dearly. My heart goes out to you and yours. Rest Easy Primo ❤️
Gerard and Klea, we are saddened to hear of the loss of your Son. Our Love and Prayers are with you and your Family. My you find comfort in God's Love.
Lea and Gerard we are so sorry to hear of your loss, you are in our prayers and thoughts. Pat and Joe Larsen
Gerard, Klea, Amanda & Paul: I was truly heartbroken when I heard this news today. Michael was one of a kind. I will always remember him fondly as one of my favorite kids that I was a counselor to at youth groups & retreats. His smile lit up the room and he had a genuinely good & loving nature. He was kind, loyal and a true joy to be around. I know there are no words that meet the tragedy of this moment. I just feel so badly for all of you! Please know that I love you guys & you are all in my prayers. May his memory be eternal.
Sending sincere & deep condolences, love, long gentle hugs, &!universal healing to the Gallegos family & friends. B. Miera
Dear Klea, Girard, Amanda and Paul, We were so sorry to hear about Michael's passing. You have always been such a close, loving family and I know you will feel his loss deeply. May his memory be eternal! Angela Petrogeorge Johns
Dear Klea and Gerard & family, I was devastated to hear of your wonderful son passing. Kos told me earlier in the evening. It's so hard to know the right words to say during times like these. I know that during this difficult time God will comfort you and your loved ones. My condolences to you all. with much love. Theodora Kavoukas Ali & my daughters
Dearest Gerard, Klea and family I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of your son Michael. I will always remember his kind smile and his caring and loving nature to all those he met. He had a Christ like spirit that he shared with everyone and his memory will forever be eternal. I pray God will comfort you with his love during this time in your lives. May God bless you all Sherry Oneida
Sorry for your loss. My prayers are for you and your family. God bless. Richard Avila
Gerard and Klea I'm sorry for your loss of your handsome young sons passing I didn't have a ol we pleasure of meeting Michael but I l was your neighbor midvale and I went to yours and Klea wedding I lived with the Iselys in back of your family home
Dearest Klea, Gerard, Amanda and Paul, I send you my heartfelt condolences after hearing of Michael's passing. Though I did not know him well, I do know he embodied faith, love, and compassion as set by your example. May you find comfort and peace at this time. May his memory be eternal. Angela Parenti Patterson
Michael was such a great guy. His enthusiasm and energy were contagious. As he helped us with our financial goals we learned more about how good he was. We will miss him and wish the very best for his family.
Dear Gerard, Klea, Amanda, and Paul We are so sorry for the loss of your son and brother Michael. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. May God bless your family and gather you in his arms to comfort you with his love and grace. May Michael’s memory be eternal. All our love.
Sorry for your loss.
Dear Gerard, Klea and family, My deepest and most heartfelt condolences to your family. I was very fortunate to have my life touched by Michael. He will live in our hearts forever...
Gallegos Family, My Prayers and thoughts are with you all. Mike was one of a kind. I got to know him when he started with Northwestern Mutual. I cherished our lunches at Crown. He had an infectious smile, great sense of Humour and was loved by all. I will miss him so much. You raised a Beautiful Soul. All my love. Beth
Gerard, Klea, Amanda and Paul, Love and prayers to you. I will miss my wonderful nephew Michael Gerard. PSALM 23 The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul; He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Klea, Gerard, Amanda, Paul and family, sending an immense amount of love to all of you. We are so incredibly sorry for this huge loss. May his memory be eternal.
Gerard and Klea,Sharon and I are so sorry to hear about the passing of your son Michael, may he rest in peace and may God comfort you in this trying time. God bless! Paul and Sharon Garcia
We are so sorry for your loss. There is nothing we can say or do to make things better and our hearts are breaking for you. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love always Larry and Jeanne Walker
Mikey was such an inpiration to all he met. My heart breaks for the Gallegos Family. May your memories of Mikey comfort you during this difficult time, and time heal your pain. May Mikey's memory be eternal. Sending love, thoughts, prayers and my deepest sympathy.
Gerard and Klea We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your wonderful son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Lew and Connie Flinders
Michael was great to work with and helped me with my investments. He was so nice and cheery. He will be missed.
In Loving Memory
