Michael "Big Mike" Adam Uhrich

Michael Adam Uhrich, lovingly known as "Big Mike", passed away July 3rd 2025, after a lifelong battle with mental health. He leaves behind a legacy of connection, music, and gratitude.

Born April 3, 1975, Mike's journey began in Casa Grande. He was proud of his heritage as a 5th generation Arizonian. He was one of 8 kids born to Orrin & Diana Uhrich.

Mike's musical gifts emerged early-at just three years old, he was already playing primary songs from church by ear, both hands on the piano after Sunday services. Recognizing his extraordinary talent, his mother searched tirelessly for a teacher who would accept such a young pupil, finally finding one willing to teach Mike at age five for $4 a week-a meaningful investment for a large family.

Mike's abilities progressed rapidly. By age eight, he was playing complex pieces and soon became a regular performer in his church congregation, arranging and sharing special musical numbers. His musical study soared when he became a pupil of the acclaimed Maurice Cavenee, a virtuoso who not only taught him to play, but to truly connect with music. Their lessons-sometimes spent just listening to Rachmaninoff-were transformative, and Mike later named his son Rach in honor of both Maurice and the composer.

Music was only one facet of Mike's vibrant life. He was a gifted athlete, excelling in baseball, basketball, wrestling, track and field, and especially football. His size and skill made him a natural leader, and he became team captain and MVP for his high school football team, leading them to a state playoff run and earning a spot as a starter in the Arizona HS 4-A All State game.

Despite being stereotyped as a "dumb jock", Mike shattered expectations with his musical prowess, often surprising audiences by sitting down at the piano or singing as a first-chair baritone in Arizona's regional and all-state choirs. He was also the co-accompanist for his high school choir, performing pieces like Handel's "Messiah" for hundreds of voices.

Awarded a full football scholarship to Rick's College (BYU-Idaho) in 1993, Mike initially declared himself a music major, standing out as a 6'4", 280-pound athlete among his classmates. Though he ultimately changed his major, he earned a starting position as a defensive lineman on a nationally ranked, undefeated team that won the 1994 Real Dairy Bowl. His football career ended after a major shoulder injury, but he persevered, eventually graduating with a degree in Liberal Arts and minors in Health and Business Marketing.

Mike's professional journey was as diverse as his talents. He began in commercial real estate, working his way up from sales runner to Executive Vice President at Prudential Cress Commercial Real Estate, brokering major deals like the Westgate project, home of the Arizona Cardinals, and the NEC corner of McDowell Road & 7th Avenue in Phoenix. He founded his own property management and brokerage business during the Great Recession, later selling the company to his partners.

A true innovator, Mike partnered with software engineers to create BrokerActive Corp, a real estate marketing platform that revolutionized administrative processes for firms like Jones Lang LaSalle. He also served as Chair Director for the Arizona Department of Real Estate's Technology Task Force, implementing key technological advancements.

Mike's curiosity and compassion extended into health and wellness, particularly in the field of peptide research, inspired by his father's health struggles. Though his work faced regulatory challenges, his passion for healing and helping others never waned. Most recently, Mike served as the Chief Sales Officer for Mountain Roofers & Trees. He loved working with his son, Jett. Mike was the resident arborist, visionary, recruiter and hype man. Mike's natural ability to make friends everywhere he went made it easy for him to network and build professional relationships. When Mike handpicked someone for Mountain, it was with the intention of helping them pursue their dreams. Mountain was just the vehicle to help. Mike went out of his way for a new "Mountie". He would regularly cook a new team member a steak dinner, reassuring them that they were "family" and that Mountain Roofers was their home.

Music remained a constant in Mike's life. He played professionally with the Upper East Side Big Band and at prestigious venues across Phoenix, including the Wrigley Mansion, Ritz Carlton, and The Phoenician. He played at the Carlisle Hotel in New York City, The Pendry Hotel in Park City, numerous libraries and hospitals. He performed for distinguished guests such as Senator John McCain, Vice President Dan Quayle, and other notable figures. He loved playing for Pendry Hotel in Park City. He never charged for performing and always donated his tips to staff. He felt like a celebrity when people would recognize him in town.

Mike was a musical medium and his greatest love was composing songs as gifts to comfort those who had suffered the loss of a loved one.

Above all, Mike was a devoted father and "bonus dad." He is survived by his beloved children Jett & Rach Uhrich, his former wife of 20 years, Jaime Uhrich. He is also survived by his bonus kids Asher & Maverick Pugh and his partner in life and business, Sara Pugh Uhrich. They shared love and deep companionship until the end of his life.

Mike spent the better part of the last year and a half assembling his blended family. His Mentor and friend of 25 years, William "Pops" Saul, was a Cherished Father Figure. Hector Araujo was a brother and Breanna Greenwood a sister to him and served as gratitude accountability buddies. Matt Mogle served as Mike's Mission Companion in Alabama and is a cherished friend and brother. Jordan Brown was not only a best friend, but a brother. Mike officiated the ceremony when Jordan married his wife Ragan. He was proud to be Uncle Mike to their tribe. Mike mentored and nurtured countless friends through his volunteer work and time spent in the gym.

Big Mike was a passionate graduate, volunteer staff member and advocate for Be You Training; a transformational program, guiding others on their journeys of self-discovery and healing. He was a stranger to no one; his greatest love was connection, and he made every person feel worthy, deserving and capable of embodying the best version of themselves. He felt Be You Training and learning about gratitude changed his life and everyday he taught others that it would change theirs.

Mike's life ended after a long and courageous struggle with mental health. His family wishes to honor his memory by encouraging open conversations about mental health and supporting those who are struggling. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out-you are not alone.

A Cigar Send Off was hosted by Castro's Cigar Bar in Scottsdale July 11, 2025. Mike was their first customer and a regular at Castros. He quickly fell in love with cigars and spent hours researching the best cigars, quickly becoming an aficionado. He could make a quick friend at the cigar bar as easily as he made friends at the gym. Mike loved the staff. Elle, Dave & John went out of their way to honor Mike closing the bar for his event.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, July 19th at 10:00am at 2750 West 13400 South, Riverton, UT 84065. In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting music programs for young children. He believed everyone was capable of composing music from their heart. In true Mike fashion, going home after crying in a church building would never suffice, so the real after party will be held at HANDLE BAR 751 N 300 W Salt Lake City, UT 84103 Saturday, July 19th at 1:30pm.

Mike's music lives on and can be found on Spotify, continuing to comfort and inspire. His legacy of love, laughter, and authentic connection will never be forgotten. Mike Uhrich was larger than life-an athlete, musician, entrepreneur, innovator, partner and father. He lived unapologetically, inspiring those around him to break boundaries, pursue their passions, and never accept easy labels. His story is one of resilience, creativity, and heart-a life well-played, in every sense.