Michael LePrey: The Embodiment of Hospitality, A Life Lived with Open Arms and Open Heart

Michael LePrey was a father, grandpa, brother, uncle, and an unstoppable force of positivity and light. At 72 years young, born in 1952 to Eddie LePrey and Joy Jorgensen, Michael carried a spark that brightened every room he walked into. He grew up alongside his four siblings—Penni, Bruce, Roger, and Jodie—spending summers fishing by the pond in Cottonwood Heights and creating memories that shaped his love for family and connection. He lived all over the Salt Lake City valley, making each place feel like home.

He was the proud father of two children, Rachael LePrey (38) and Lucas (Amelia) LePrey (36), and the loving grandfather of Louise LePrey (2) and Rowan LePrey (5). It was important to him to remain friends  with the mother of his children and his wife of seven years, Debra Tague. His family meant everything to him, and he poured his heart into every moment they shared.

Michael was known for many things: his athleticism, his charisma, and his boundless love for the people in his life. In high school, he set records in the discus, and his talent on the field earned him All-Conference and All-American honors playing college football at Dixie and Weber State, proudly wearing #67.

After college, Michael found his calling in hospitality, landing a gig at DB Coopers in Salt Lake City. It didn’t take long for him to take ownership and transform it into one of the most successful restaurants and bars in the state. His entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there—he went on to create four other beloved establishments from the ground up: 3rd and Main, Wasatch Front, Millcreek Grill and Bar, and Casa De Miguel in Minnesota. Michael was hospitality itself. Michael, the man of hospitality; this was his essence.

But Michael wasn’t just a builder of spaces—he was a renegade, a trailblazer, an outlaw. His energy was magnetic, an unstoppable force that ran in the blood of the LePreys. To Michael, everything was possible, and his boundless spirit inspired those around him to believe the same.

His presence was unforgettable—welcoming, positive, and always honest. He had a way of making everyone feel seen and valued, drawing people into his orbit with a natural warmth that could light up even the hardest days.

Michael never missed an opportunity to make memories with the people he loved. Family reunions, events, dinners—you invited him, and he was there. He especially cherished time with his siblings and always made it a point to show up, sharing laughter, stories, and love in every gathering.

His essence wasn’t just in what he built but in how he lived. Michael loved his vintage boat, Milemara—a labor of love with her burnt red paint and endless quirks. Pineview Reservoir became his sanctuary, a place where he danced, sang, and created cherished memories against the backdrop of mountains and sandy beaches. These weekends with friends and family were among his happiest times, filled with laughter, music, and the pure joy of life.

In his later years, Michael embraced life with the same vibrant spirit. He loved playing pickleball, traveling, going to concerts, and spending time with his kids and grandkids. He even checked off a bucket-list moment by attending the US Open with his son. Michael had friends from every corner of the world, and his love reached far and wide.

His legacy will live on through the love he shared and the spaces he created. From incredible food and wine to the laughter and connection he inspired, Michael’s gift was making everyone feel welcomed and valued. He showed us all how to savor life and love deeply.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, January 14, from 6–8 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor (3651 South 900 East, SLC). Guests are encouraged to use the north entrance. This open house will feature small plates, music, and a conversational atmosphere. A formal funeral service with speakers will follow on Wednesday, January 15, at 11 AM, also at Starks Funeral Parlor.

In true Michael fashion, this will be a celebration of life, love, and the incredible impact he had on all of us. He left us too soon, but his legacy of joy, connection, and hospitality will remain forever in our hearts.