Michael I. Kessimakis
August 30, 1960 - February 5, 2018
"It Is What It Is"
Mike passed away at home February 5th, due to a year long valiant battle with cancer. He was able to remain at home because of the loving care of his family and close friends.
Mike was born August 30, 1960 in Las Vegas, Nevada to Gary Kessimakis and Linda Garfinkle Kessimakis. He was raised in Murray Utah on a farm with a horse and any animal you can think of, also with a creek a block away. He had an Aunt, several Uncles and a grandpa close by. It was a fun childhood. He graduated from Murray High School where he participated in athletics. After High School he served 3 years in the Army stationed in Germany. It gave him the opportunity to see Europe. When he returned from the Army he married Marsha Campbell, later divorced, but they remained lifelong friends. He went to work for the family owned wholesale produce company. He had an amazing work ethic, a family trait. After his father and uncle retired he and his brother continued to successfully operate the family business.
As hard as he worked he played even harder. There wasn't a hill he wouldn't climb whether it was in his truck, his 3 wheeler or a snowmobile. There wasn't a dirt road he didn't travel to see what was at the end. He loved camping, the mountains and the water. He also loved skydiving, went cliff jumping in Mexico and flying in a small plane with his son-in-law Kyle. His love for travel took him all over the world.
He leaves behind his heartbroken parents, Linda and Gary; best friend, brother and business partner James and his wife Terry; his cherished children Morgan (Adam Childs) and Megan (Kyle Ferrin); and two grandchildren, Adyson Marley and Beau Childs. He also leaves behind supportive nieces, nephew, cousins and dear friends.
A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, February 11, 2018 from 2:00 – 4:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 S. 900 E., Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking on the north side of the building.
In Loving Memory
I am so sorry for your loss. Megan is one of my best friends. And some of the best qualities she has as a person come from her amazing father. He was an amazing man, and will be missed deeply...
Tyler McRae
Bluffdale, Ut
Thoughts, prayers and condolances to the Kessimakis family for your loss. He will be deeply missed and may he rest in peace.
Mark Morimoto
Los Angeles, CA
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at the loss of your son and brother. I didn't know him well,but of course have known James for quite some time. I'km sure he will be greatly missed by all - again, my most sincere condolences. Marlene
Marlelne Luke
Salt Lake City, UT
James and family, our deepest sympathy and prays go out to your entire family during this very difficult time. May Jesus wrap his loving arms around your family. > Kevin & Patti Meguire
Kevin & Patti Meguire
Farmersville, TX
Sending condolences and prayers for Mike's family. I knew him in high school and he was always such a kick in the pants! Laughing and grinning always! It looks as if he lived his whole life the same way. I'm deeply sorry for your loss.
Frankie Manwill Casto
Redmond, WA
The Jollies offer their deepest condolences to Mike's family. His wife Jennifer, her boys, her parents, and family are devastated by his loss. Mike has been part of our family for 13 years and as such was a valuable member, well loved and enjoyed by all. We will miss him terribly.
Karen Jollie
Sahuarita, AZ
My deepest sympathy to the Kessimakis family. I didn't know Mike but James spoke highly about him all the time. Your strong family bond will get you through this tough time. Think about all the great moments you had together and smile! Scott Nishimura Los Angeles, CA
Scott Nishimura
Los Angeles, CA
Gary and Linda, we are absolutely devastated at the loss of your Michael. Having gone through this heartbreaking nightmare ourselves, our hearts are so broken for you, and we pray you can find peace in knowing he lived a full and happy life and leaves behind an incredible legacy. Parents are not supposed to bury their children - it's the most unspeakable, unbearable, unfair loss, and it takes years from which to recover. We surely empathize with your loss and pain, and pray for strength to guide you through. We've learned that there will finally be light at the end of a very long journey, but rest assured that it will come, in time. We love you. Dennis and Soozy.
Dennis and Susan horton
Midvale, Ut