On October 24, 2022, Michael M. Putnam, age 71, passed away in the mountains of Star Valley, Wyoming doing what he loved, enjoying nature, spending time with family and hunting. Michael was born on August 3, 1951, to Noel W. Putnam and Barbara Mae Mead in Afton, Wyoming. He was the oldest of six siblings. Growing up in Afton, Wyoming he gained a fierce love of the outdoors.
After he graduated in 1968 he married Lois Hurd and together they had five amazing children. They later divorced and he married Kathy Bright and added another three beautiful daughters and one ambitious son to his family. When Kathy and he divorced, he met Lynn Leininger, his dearest friend and devoted partner. He had found the love that made him feel complete. Their relationship brought out the best in him and he gained a fourth strong son.
Michael is preceded in death by his parents ,Noel and Barbara; his brother Nathan; and his daughter Alexis. He is survived by his wife, Lynn, and their children Darren (Holly), Teresa (Cody), Barbara (Cory), Heidi (Pete), Tyler (Christine), Natalie, Jesse (Sheri), Leslie (Geoff), Joe (Jess), and adopted daughter Angel who also brought him three new grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers, Fred and Kim; and two sisters, Yvonne and Susan; along with numerous nieces and nephews that lovingly referred to him as “Uncle Mike.” He left a legacy of 33 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Mike achieved many things in his life including decades of service to his community as a member of law enforcement. In his retirement he drove the local school bus and trained others to do so as well, ensuring children arrived safe and happy at school for years. He played the French horn, raced bicycles, and raised bison. Mike was also very much a family man, a protective brother, loving father, and devoted grandfather. And while his family grew and moved to distant parts of the country, he was always there guiding and providing for them.
Michael was a man of faith, performing baby blessings for his family as well as blessings for those who had taken ill. He taught his family to “Never Compromise your Standards” (the family motto) and to remember that they were Putnams, a proud, strong, and gospel-centered family. He led by example, serving in several callings in the church and loved and provided service to everyone he met.
Funeral services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building (640 Twin Ridge Ave) in Evanston on October 29, 2022. A viewing will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with the funeral following at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be the same day in the Auburn, Wyoming, Cemetery at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to the Huntsman Cancer Center. Condolences www.crandallfh.com
