“Nobody rides for free. Except this old sweat bee.”
-Michael Norman Kinnebrew, August 19, 1953 to March 9, 2025
Michael Norman Kinnebrew, or “Mike” as he was known to nearly all, was born in Birmingham, Alabama in 1953 to Rosalind and George “Buddy” Kinnebrew. He was the third of five boys that were raised together in a small and cozy home. He was a Naval Corpsman, a traveling nurse, hiker, camper, runner, and so many other things to so many people; above all, he was a father, brother, and friend. Those who knew him, knew him well; his heart knew no greater joy than the happiness of those around him.
He was an avid outdoors-man who enjoyed many of the simpler things in life. Mike and his good friend, David Howell, built a cabin from the foundation to the roof in the woods on Putman Mountain, Alabama. Yearly backpacking, camping, or rafting trips were common. He could almost always be found outside running, biking, skiing, etc. and often with his soul-dog Buddy who was extremely fond of the Jordanelle trails.
Mike was a dedicated and compassionate nurse who impacted countless lives through his kindness, gentle demeanor, and reassuring presence. Coworkers often spoke of his infectious laughter and his ability to brighten even the hardest of days with a simple act of kindness.
Mike and Rita were able to take the “trip of a lifetime” to New Zealand to celebrate their retirement and 38 years of marriage. Mike was filled with immense gratitude and would often say how he was the luckiest man alive. To quote Mike, “In the poker game of life, I was dealt the Royal Flush.” His family and friends feel that they were the lucky ones to have him in their lives.
After an unexpected hospital visit, he passed away on March 9th surrounded by his loving family and friends. Mike continued his legacy of generosity by being an organ and tissue donor. We know that Mike would have been happy to know that he was able to save someone’s life.
He is survived by his wife Rita, son Taylor (Tawnee), and daughter Hannah as well as his brothers Hank (Cynthia), Peter, and Terry (Pam) Kinnebrew. He was preceded in passing by his parents Rosalind & George, brother David, and sister-in-law Lillian Kinnebrew.
The family would like to thank the staff at the University of Utah hospital for their kindness and compassionate care of Mike.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Summit Land Conservancy, or your local animal shelter in Mike’s name.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, July 28th, 2025 from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the parking and entrance located on the north side of the building.
