“He did it his way.” Michael Farley Clayton (you probably knew him as Mike or Mr. Mike) left life on this earth for adventures beyond our realm on Sunday, June 25, 2023. His memory is carried on by his wife, three sons, one brother and an extended family of relatives and friends from every walk of life. We were blessed to learn many valuable lessons from Mike during his 87 years among us.
Mike was born in Salt Lake City on October 27, 1935. He lived a remarkable life and was so many things – an airborne soldier, an officer and a gentleman, Vietnam veteran, a proud bronze star medal recipient, a mental health counselor, a rockhounder, an explorer, a patriot, a teacher, a poet, a writer, a storyteller, a loving husband, and a friend. He had a gentle soul and could still recite Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s “How Do I Love Thee,” and would tear up every time. Many a student could re-tell his “ant” story and know the meaning of waggling fingers on the forehead. And, if you ever heard the story of “the fox hole,” you were given a glimpse inside his world.
Mike was well educated with a Master’s in Education and Behavioral Sciences and appreciated the finer things in life, like a smooth cognac, Egg McMuffins, seedless jam, westerns, and war and submarine movies. In his lifetime, Mike made an impact on the world in a way only he could. Those who have been lucky enough to know him and share in his life are sure to silently tip a nod and thank him for sharing so many bits of his life and wisdom that will continue to warm our souls and leave a lingering smile in his wake. In Mike’s words, “Find love and keep it growing.”
Mike is survived by his wife, Stephanie; sons, Stephen (Hannah) Clayton, Derek (Katie Kourianos) Bracken, Jared (Alex) Bracken; brother, Robert (Tyra) Clayton; mum, MaryLee Stevens; and many family and friends too numerous to list but not forgotten.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Eva Farley Clayton; father, Quinn Lamar Clayton; father-in-law, Paul Stevens; brother-in-law, Brian Stevens; and niece, Alisa Clayton.
A special thank you to the angels of Symbii who have guided and held our hands through this end journey. Thank you, Michaela, Kara, Candace, Belle, and Dr. Cam.
A graveside service to honor the life of Major Michael F. Clayton will be held at Utah Veterans Cemetery & Memorial Park (17111 South Camp Williams Road, Bluffdale, UT 84065) on Friday July 14, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.
Life is not forever. Love is.
Arrangements entrusted to Mitchell Funeral Home of Price and Huntington where friends are always welcome daily and may share memories of Mike online at www.mitchellfuneralhome.net.