Michael VanRoosendaal Obituary
Visit the
Larkin Sunset Gardens - Sandy website to view the full obituary.
Celebration of Life The Chateau 1910 E. Dimple Dell Rd, Sandy, Utah 84092
Thursday Aug 28, 2025: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Interment Utah Veterans Cemetery and Memorial Park- 17111 S. 1700 W., Bluffdale, Utah
Friday Aug 29, 2025: 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Words can't express the heartbreak of losing this amazing human.
Michael Corey VanRoosendaal was born on July 26, 1993 in Murray, Utah. He was discovered deceased on August 2, 2025, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, at the tragically young age of 32.
He is survived by his mother, Kim Rees; his father, Eugene VanRoosendaal; his sisters, Megan and Karlie Rees; two nieces, one nephew, and many friends and extended family.
Michael was deeply loved, kind-hearted, fiercely loyal, and protective of those he cared for. Some of his happiest moments growing up were spent with his grandparents and extended family during long summers in Bedford, Wyoming - where he always felt at home. Michael loved the outdoors, particularly fishing and hunting with his dad, grandpa, and his cousins, Jacob and Trevor. He shared a love for the water and the ocean with his mom and sisters.
He attended Murray High School and at age 17, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving as a machine gunner. He was stationed at Twentynine Palms and completed two deployments to the Middle East. He earned many service medals and honors. Michael was deeply proud of his military service, but the experiences he endured left deep and lasting scars.
After his time in the Marines, Michael proudly worked in law enforcement and security. He had a strong sense of justice and an instinct to look out for others, even when it was difficult to care for himself.
He shared special bonds with his two German Shepherd dogs, Mauser and Rosie. He will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, and the warmth he showed to his closest friends and family.
"Though Michael is no longer here, the memories we shared will always be alive in us. He touched our lives in ways that can't be forgotten, and that is what we celebrate today - a life that mattered and will always be remembered. In his memory, may we each carry forward the spirit of living a joyful life."
"In Memory of Michael and in gratitude for his service, we invite you to honor his legacy by supporting fellow veterans through these meaningful organizations. Please consider contributing to these charities that help veterans heal, find support, and thrive."
WARRIOR REVIVAL- To support and empower Veterans and their families transition from the military to civilian life through recreation, mentorship, wellness and therapeutic retreats. Donate: https://warrior-revival.org/
CONTINUE MISSION- Serving all-era Veterans and Service Members with physical, mental, and emotional challenges; and their family/support members. Donate: https://www.continuemission.org/
HEROS HAVEN- To empower veteran warfighters and first responders with a lasting community and curated knowledge in applying life-saving clinical solutions to overcome traumas resulting from adverse experiences. Donate: https://www.dashooah.com/