Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Michael Scoggins Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Scoggins
Anonymous luthier
July 18, 2024
This still burns. I miss you.
Paul Jaroch
July 16, 2023
I´ll see you on the other side, Bud
anonymous luthier
August 8, 2009
It's been nearly a year now, and I still think of Mike. He is still in each stroke of the plane, and every cut of the knife.
Tara Flandreau
August 25, 2008
My heartfelt sympathies to the Scoggins family on this sad news. Michael was a fellow student of mine in music classes at the College of Marin in California in the 70's, before he took up violin making. He was a quiet and shy student, and a very sweet and nice person. He came back out to the college last year to play in a concert I organized for one of our elderly former violin professors. It was very good to see him after all these years, and I am very saddened that he is no longer with us.
Sandra Murray
August 20, 2008
We were so sorry to hear the sad news of Michaels death. As a nephew and cousin,we have many fond memories of him at various times during his life. In 1973 we all went on holiday to Wales, during which we learned how much he loved the outdoors, mountainous walks and lobster fishing. We all had a wonderful time together. Another special time was when he visited us with Carrie, and more recently when we vistied all the family in Salt Lake City, seeing for ourselves the violin shop and the beautiful violins he made. We remember his pleasant manner, lovely smile and sense of humour and are all proud to have known him. Our deepest sympathy to all at this difficult time. All our love, Derek, Norma,Ian,Sandra, John and family
Diana Nuttall
August 17, 2008
A deep sadness fills my heart at the news of Michael Scoggins' death. The many cellos I have brought back to Canada from his shop are being enjoyed now and will be for many many years. Michael was understanding and considerate, and very professional in helping me locate quality cellos for my students. His death leaves a hole in the string community, but Michael leaves a legacy with his instruments.
Jane Plewman
August 16, 2008
We came to Salt Lake City in July of 2006 from Toronto Canada and Michael worked on my cello. The impression he left us with was of someone with considerable warmth and empathy. I still remember that meeting and am so shocked to hear the news of his untimely death.We send our heartfelt love and sympathy to his family and friends. News like this takes time to register and grief and pain will eventually lessen. May the love and caring you feel from others strengthen and support you through this very difficult time.
Steven Ray Gilbert
August 15, 2008
My heart is broken! I've enjoyed my many visits to Scoggins & Scoggins when I'm in SLC. I'll still make that pilgrimage my next trip there but will surely miss Michael's kind attention and his eagerness to share whatever progress he's been making on current projects. I will treasure our encounters!
Isabella des Etoiles
August 14, 2008
I just now got the news. I sent all of my students to Mike's shop because I knew he treated everyone with respect and kindness. He was always friendly and attentive. I and my students will miss him tremendously.
Isabella Esho des Etoiles
Sarah Brough Blomquist
August 14, 2008
I just received a card in the mail informing me of Mike’s passing. The news is so shocking I don’t want to believe it. I have visited Mike’s shop about every time I make it to Utah. He would always help me with my fiddle and would never ask for a penny. I still remember our last visit in April where he showed me another hilarious gadget and we had a great laugh. He was such a giving and caring man! I have appreciated his help so much over the years and will miss him greatly!
Debbie Monday
August 12, 2008
For all of those who Mike left behind, I share in your loss. I knew nothing but kindness and professional courtesy in my experiences with him. He will be greatly missed by all of his colleagues.
Melissa Hilton
August 11, 2008
We are sorry to hear of Michael's death. He was a great help to us with our instruments and will be missed.
ivonna & irie earnest
August 11, 2008
Dear Scoggins Family,
We a loyal patrons of Scoggins & Scoggins Violin Shop and we are truly devastated by the news about Mike. We will so miss his expertise and gift for the violin, he will be remembered fondly.
Jane Marshall
August 11, 2008
Dear Carrie and Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find peace and comfort through one another and your fond memories of Michael.
With deep regards,
Jane Marshall and children
Janice McAllister
August 5, 2008
We are so saddened to hear of this tragic loss. Michael was a true friend to us in the Logan School District orchestra program and to me personally. We have been blessed by his great skill, care and consideration as he provided us with wonderful instruments and then made many trips to Logan to personally service them. I will miss having him quietly slip into my classroom then go about his work. He was a consummate professional - a gifted artist whose work will be sorely missed but his legacy stretches far and wide. The world is a better place because of the creations of Michael Scoggins as well as his kind and gentle spirit that touched so many lives. Our heartfelt sympathy, love and concern go to all his family. We will miss him more than we can say.
Eileen Campos
July 30, 2008
How very, very sad I am to have learned just today of Michael's death. I remember him so well as I do all the family. I send to each one of you my deepest and sincerest sympathy and love. Eileen M. Campos
Rachel Smith
July 29, 2008
Mary,
I am terribly sorry to hear of your loss. You were a great teacher to our daughter. Our love and sympathy are with your family.
lionel & margaret clark
July 29, 2008
Thinking of you all at this very sad time. Love from Lionel, Margaret, Louise, Nic, Zak & Ryan
Jane Longden (nee Clark)
July 29, 2008
To Carrie & family. My thoughts are with you at this very difficult time and your family. I was very shocked to hear of Michael's death. I often think of when I visited you back in 1992. Please pass on my thoughts to Uncle Gene as well. Love Cousin Jane (from England) and my family - my husband John and our son Morgan x
John Waddle
July 28, 2008
To Michael's family,
I am so sorry to hear of Michael's passing at such a young age. I will remember him as a hard working capable man with a great sense of humor. His passing is a loss to all of us. Peace.
Bill Scott
July 28, 2008
Dear Carrie,
I was so saddened to hear about Michael last week. I can't believe it. My deepest condolences. It will be such a loss to you and your family and to all of us. What a wonderful and inspiring man Michael was.
Please know that you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. My prayers are that you will find the necessary strength and solace to get through each day, week and month to come.
Sincerely,
Richard, Gerry, and Steven Bennett
July 26, 2008
Dear Carrie and family, We are so sorry to learn of Michael's passing. We remember how kind he was to fix Steven's cello (for free, simply out of love for the instrument he created). A contribution in his memory will be made to the Utah Symphony.
The Richard Bennett Family
David Dalton
July 26, 2008
Dear Michael,
(Is it acceptable to write a message to the deceased? I know it may be unusual, but who's to say but what you just might be privy of all these expressions of appreciation for your life and work?)
I learned rather late through a mutual friend of your passing. It took my breath away. I will miss your affability, kindness, and humility that characterized our association. I believe I may have first gotten to know you when you joined the Salt Lake Symphony midway through my twelve-year tenure as its director. There seemed always to be a renewal of friendship when you exhibited at any of the numerous international viola congresses somewhere in North America. Or, it was in your and Carrie's shop, or on the phone inquirying about a suitable viola for one of my students because I had such respect for your craftsmanship over the years.
In any of these "scenes from the past," I glimpse the slight smile and friendly eyes with which you always greeted me. Thanks for the warmth you showed me, and please know of the poignant feelings I carry at this moment toward you.
horst kloss
July 26, 2008
My deepest sympathy goes out to the Scoggins family. Your husbands death will be felt in the greater violin makers family.
I'm sorry for your husbands death.
he shall be missed.
Horst Kloss
In our souls everything
moves guided by a mysterious hand.
We know nothing of our own souls
that are ununderstandable and say nothing.
The deepest words
of the wise man teach us
the same as the whistle of the wind it blows
or the sound of the water when it is flowing.
Emily Brown
July 26, 2008
Dear Scoggins family,
Please accept my sincere condolences at this difficult time. I purchased a viola made by Michael back in 1991, and have received compliments on it worldwide. I will never forget his honesty, kindness and professionalism. He always treated me not just as a valued customer but as a friend. He will be missed.
C P
July 25, 2008
Thank you for fixing my Great-Grandmother's violin. It has been a delight to play and brings many others joy as well. Your work has been appreciated!
Susan Wilcox
July 25, 2008
I was on vacation and remain shocked at this news - Michael was a great dealer and maker and served many of us Suzuki teachers. I am at a loss - I had planned to come in this week and purchase another violin for a student who loved his last one from Michael's shop. I hope your grievances are NOT long-lasting, but full of the happiness Michael would like you to have in the memory of his amazing life and service.
Anita Winegar
July 24, 2008
Gene and all of Michael's family,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on your painful loss. Michael was such a gentle soul who had the ability to touch peoples hearts in an honest, understated way. I will always cherish the times I spent with your wonderful family and will remember Michael as a very talented and shining example of humility in greatness. May you be comforted in his legacy that will live on for a long, long time in the many exceptional violins that he created.
My very best wishes in your time of sorrow,
Charles Rufino
July 24, 2008
Dear Scoggins Family,
Deepest condolences to you all after this shocking loss. Michael was a trusted colleague whose dedication to our art made the world a better place. His passing diminshes us all and he will be deeply missed.
My family joins me in hoping that you may find peace again after this painful time.
Charles Woolf
July 24, 2008
In memory of Michael, the Violin Making School of America has made a donation to the Salt Lake Symphony. We remember Michael as generous with his time and knowledge in aiding aspiring makers, and we will miss him. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family, as we reflect on and honor his fine qualities.
David Schlub
July 24, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathies. I always felt welcome in the violin shop on my visits to Salt Lake. He will be missed greatly in the community.
Bonnie Felger
July 24, 2008
My deepest sympathy goes to the Scoggins family at this time. I was shocked and saddened to learn of Michael's recent passing. He was a gifted craftsman who treated his customers with extra care. I will always remember my visits to his shop with fondness.
Joseph Grubaugh & Sigrun Seifert
July 24, 2008
It was very sad to learn of the passing of Michael. He will be missed by his colleagues in the violin making community and in the world of musicians where his work will live on.
Andrew Ryan
July 24, 2008
Michael was my teacher and I'll always remember the sparkle in his eyes, his dry wit and his generosity. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
Celso De Mello
July 24, 2008
I will always have in my mind the true gentleman, craftsman, and genuine colleague who always shared his knowledge of the art of violin making. My condolences to the family.
Michael Vann
July 23, 2008
We are shocked and saddened to hear about Michael's passing. He was a friendly face and a thoughtful conversation whenever we met.
Our condolences to his family.
Dolores and Michael Vann
kurt widenhouse
July 23, 2008
Dear Mike,
I knew you and it made me a little better.
Your friend,
Kurt Widenhouse
Tom Croen
July 23, 2008
I was shaken to hear the news about Mike. I knew him to be a generous, steady person with a sparkle in his eye. Too soon lad, too soon.
Rhonda Frascotti
July 23, 2008
Michael and I have been friends since being high school and college classmates in California. He was an exceptionally gentle, warmhearted person, and I am sorrowful knowing that he is gone.
chris white
July 23, 2008
I am very sad to hear of Michael's passing. My thoughts are with his family, his friends and the many craftsmen who held him in such high esteem.
Andrew and Jenny Frink
July 23, 2008
Our deepest condolences to Michael's family. I'll always have the fondest memories of the way he welcomed us into the car club and helped us to feel at home there.
Century Strings, Inc.,
July 23, 2008
We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Michael. His gifts of knowledge and passion inspired us to better ourselves. Although his contribution to the world of string instruments will live on forever, his death was a tragedy in the violin industry. He was a great friend to us, and he will be missed. Please accept our deepest sympathies to the bereaved.
Jennifer Glows Brightly
July 23, 2008
Michael will be greatly missed by all who knew him. What a wonderful man! My deepest sympathies go to his wife and children. May you feel comforted by all the love and support that surrounds you. May your days get easier and your fond memories of Michael grow stronger every day.
John Paul Lucas
July 23, 2008
Michael will be missed dearly by the Salt Lake community. We have lost one of our greats. I have always respected his talent and level of professionalism. My deepest thoughts go out to his family.
David Gusset
July 23, 2008
Dear Scoggins family,
My heartfelt condolences go out to you in your time of grief for the loss of your beloved Michael. As a colleague, I had the greatest respect for his dedication and craftsmanship.
francis kuttner
July 23, 2008
I am very sad to hear of Michael's death. I knew him from many Federation meetings and violinmaking congresses. He always had a quick smile, a good wit, and was a fine violinmaker. My condolences to the family and close friends in Utah.
Anthony Lane
July 23, 2008
My deepest sympathies go out to those who knew and loved Michael. I will remember him as a very kind, and open hearted person who willingly shared all he knew about our craft of violin making with anyone who cared to take the time to delve beneath his quite exterior. His wit and humor sparkled just below the surface. fair winds, fair winds.
John Moroz
July 23, 2008
Michael and I sat next to each other in our first year of violin making school, and we graduated together in 1982. He was a quick learner, and worked with focus and concentration-- he kept me on my toes! I'll remember him as a talented craftsman, an honest businessman, and a kind and generous human being.
Joseph Curtin
July 23, 2008
I was shocked and much saddened to hear of Michael's death. Though I didn't know him well, I fondly remember several lunches and dinners together over the years. Each one reminded me what good company he was - with his sparkling personality behind that quiet front, and his enduring passion for everything to do with the violin. Farewell, fellow traveler! Joseph
Christopher Reuning
July 23, 2008
As one of Michael's colleagues who only knew him from professional gatherings, I always admired his craftsmanship and demeanor. I extend my deepest sympathies to his family and friends.
Ray Leicht
July 23, 2008
I'm extremely saddened over the news of Michael's unexpected passing. Michael was an inspiring mentor to me in the violin making craft and a friend for many years. I came to rely on him for practical solutions to my knottiest construction or varnish dilemmas. His soft-spoken, modest demeanor belied an artist and craftsman of huge God-given talents, who was always willing to share his knowledge freely and unconditionally. I'll forever cherish the fond memories of visiting with him and Carrie at their shop and home, and of their beautiful family. The expression of Michael's talents - - as witnessed in his exquisite instruments - - will surely serve as his legacy to countless, future generations.
Terry Carlin
July 23, 2008
I extend my heartfelt regrets and condolences to Michael's family. He was an important contributor to the lives of all of us who were very fortunate to attend the Violin Making School of America under his tutelage.
Sincerely,
Terry Carlin
Soo Lee
July 22, 2008
I was very sad to hear about Michael’s passing. He was a very kind person and we shared a passion for cars. He always made me feel welcomed during my visits to his shop and I greatly enjoyed our conversations. I will miss him and would like to send my condolences to his family during this difficult time.
Vito Vissicaro
July 22, 2008
I am shocked to hear about Michael's passing, just spoke with him a few weeks ago. I will always remember him as a true Gentleman, a genuine and dedicated artist and colleague.
Larry and Margaret Farrington
July 22, 2008
Our deepest sympathy goes out to Michael’s family. Looking back on the photo’s from the road trips we shared now brings a smile and a tear. His presence will truly be missed. May fond memories bring you comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Gary Vessel
July 22, 2008
I am so sad to hear of Mikes passing. My deepest condolences to his family. As one of Mikes first students I can't even begin to measure his impact on my carrer and the careers of many others. While running my shop down the street from his and Carries we always had a great, open working relationship rarely found in the field. His honesty and professionalism will be missed in Salt Lake City. I am proud to say that he was my teacher,and my friend.
Benjamin Robison
July 22, 2008
Michael was such a nice person and I enjoyed interacting with him over the years. I love the violin he made for me and I will play it with him in mind for many years to come. I extend my sincere condolences to his family.
The world has lost a wonderful individual.
Paul Jaroch
July 22, 2008
Farewell to the best mate I ever had. See you on the other side.
Rosalie Macmillan
July 22, 2008
I have vivid memories of visiting the Scoggins violin shop in my youth, and of Michael's quiet, kind and patient manner. He was so nice to me, actually listened, and always remembered who I was, even though I was just a little kid. That left such a great impression on me. And those bright, smiling eyes!
I am well acquainted with his crafstmanship as I get to hear the beautiful musical results on a regular basis! (As a teacher of little violin players.) What a wonderful legacy he has left behind!
I just want to express my admiration and gratitude for a man who has so greatly influenced the lives of myself and so many of the instrument playing and making community around me (I'm also connected with the violin making school). I especially want to give my condolences and best wishes to his family.
Sincerely,
Rosalie (Lund) Macmillan
Ryan & Jamie Smith
July 22, 2008
A classic, original, and funny man. A gentleman craftsman in every sense; from his fantastic instruments to that fine little Triumph. Michael's patient coaching, witty remarks, and the morning bike rides/improptu races will always stay with me. Thanks for all you did for us. You will be greatly missed. Mary, we are so very sorry.
Marilyn Wallin
July 22, 2008
My deepest sympathy to Micheal's family. He will be deeply missed. His incredible talent as a violinmaker and his sense of humor were a wonderful part of every violinmaking gathering.
Jean Bucher
July 22, 2008
I am so sad to hear of Michael's passing. Michael helped me with more violins than I can count. I am a fiddle player and would find cheap fiddles here and there, buy them, take them to Michael, who would either say, "this one wasn't your best idea," or "you're finally learning how to do this!" He was immeasurably kind and understood immediately my affection for sad and bruised instruments whose sound might be restored no matter what work might have to happen to get them there. A favorite memory is when he helped me with a very old violin with a carved lions-head scroll. I was so curious if it might have writing or a date inside of it. He called me at work and announced, "I'm about to begin the surgery on your favorite fiddle...would you like to be here when I take its top off?!" I will miss his joyful kindness and expertise.
My favorite fiddle is one he worked very hard to restore; it will be even more dear to me now.
My best to his family.
Doug Greenwood
July 22, 2008
My sympathy and heartfelt loss go out to Mike's family and friends. I live next door to Mike and we spent many hours talking, riding in and admiring each others classic cars. Mike was very gifted with his mechanical mind and hands. I saw the restoration of his TR6 from start to finish and admired his finished product.
My heart is heavy with the loss of Mike because I know I have lost a special friend.
If the family needs anything at all, please feel free to contact me.
Jackie Lamb
July 22, 2008
We were so shocked to hear this tragic news. Mike was a great neighbour. Quiet on the outside but quite a joy on the inside when we discussed Genevieve and Nigel or where he was at in his next auto project. God bless all of Mikes family as this will be far from easy for you. I send my love and thoughts to Mary. An old neighbour is still a good neighbour if there is any comfort I can give you.
Mitch Johnson
July 22, 2008
Michael was so dear to Diane and I. Our travels in our little British cars were always a joy with Michael and Mary. I know Mike has already found a few great drives there in Triumph heaven. God bless the Scoggins Family. You are in our prayers.
Mark Smith
July 22, 2008
So sad to see this. I knew and was influenced by Mike through road cycling and racing. He was such a joy to ride with and to hear his stories of creating the instruments to make music. He will be missed
Robyn Rencher
July 22, 2008
We were so sorry to hear about Mike. What a talent he had! He will be missed. Our hearts go out to your family. Mary please let us know if we can do anything or if you need anything.
Sincerely,
Mark and Robyn Rencher and Family
Raymond Palmer
July 22, 2008
I was acquainted with Mr. Scoggins through his shop. As a fellow luthier and musician, I saw his impact on the musical community in SLC, from the high standards of his workmanship to his involvement in the SLC Symphony. He was never too busy to share his insight with the novice violin makers down the street. He will be missed.
Terry Borman
July 22, 2008
To Mike's family,
I'm very very sorry to hear that Mike is no longer with you. It must be a terrible loss. From the instrument making community we'll all miss him and the exceptional standards he set for himself, his work, and while he was teaching at the Violin Making School his insight into what makes a great instrument. I hope it brings some solace to his family that his work as a maker and as a human will be with us all for a very long time; and we will all be the better for it.
With my deepest regrets,
terry borman
Charles W. Liu
July 22, 2008
We are all sorry to hear about the tragic loss of our colleague and friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with Michael’s loved ones and family during this difficult time. Michael has given a lot to the string community for so many years and he will be greatly missed.
duane lasley
July 22, 2008
After I left the violin making school, I spent two years learning from Mike. He taught me what I needed to know about making a violin look professional and sound good, and he taught me how to run a shop. Without his kindness and generosity, I don't think that I would be doing what I am-running a violin shop and making violins. I always knew that if I had a question about a repair, that I could call and ask. He wasn't perfect. You aren't, nor am I. He did his best to follow his heart, and with a intensity of focus that allowed him great success in whatever he chose. He could kick my butt on a bike-and did(!), restored those little English cars from rustbuckets to pristine, and I don't think I'll ever be able to build a violin like one of his.
The next violin is going to be hard. I can still hear his voice in my head, asking me why I did it that way!
Carrie, Gene, and the rest, if you read this, please accept my condolences. I will miss him.
With regret,
Duane Lasley
Suzanne Barraclough
July 22, 2008
Mike was my dear friend. He always treated me so well when I moved back to SLC many years ago and played in the Westminster Orchestra with Jeff Manookian, conductor. He was always so funny and would tell my friend Sharon and I sometimes that there was such a thing as "over-practice". :) Later, he sold fractional violins to my students. I once did a blind test of all the little violins in town, and his were by far the best for the best price. He treated my little violin students with dignity and gave them tours of the violin shop. He treated them like the intelligent, wonderful human beings that they are. He also was the last person to do work on my 200 year old French violin and sold me my last set of strings. He was, as my husband always says, "an honest, hard-working guy." A consummate craftsman. He is SOOO missed by all of us here at Suzanne's Suzuki Strings. Love to the family, Suzanne and Mark Barraclough and all of my students.
Jamy & Jenefer Reudter
July 22, 2008
Mary,
Our heart goes out to you and your family during this time. Please know of our love for you and support for you. You have a special place in our heart and always will for the influence you have made on "Miss" Gabby! Please continue to be the special teacher you are and continue to bring the great legacy of love that you have! We love you!
Jeff Hardenbrook
July 22, 2008
I'm terribly sorry to hear of this. Michael was a good, helpful and friendly man, and will be missed. God bless Michael and his family.
Showing 1 - 75 of 75 results
Make a Donation
in Michael Scoggins's name
Memorial Events
for Michael Scoggins
How to support Michael's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Michael Scoggins's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
