Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Mike Dmitrich Obituary
1936 - 2024
Mesquite, NV-Mike Dmitrich (Milan Dmitrasnovic) was born in Murray, Utah, on October 23, 1936, to Mary Milovich and Dan Dragon Dmitrich. He moved to Carbon County Utah at the age of five. Mike was an only child who grew up with his eight uncles and three aunts. Mike married Georgia (Bo) Hatsis on February 14, 1958, in the Greek Orthodox Church in Price, Utah.
Mike is of Serbian descent, the son and grandson of progenitors who gave their lives in the coal mines of eastern Utah, Grandpa Isaac Milovich in 1936, and his father, Dan, in 1957. Mike also worked in the mining industry most of his life. Along with working as a coal miner, Mike worked at the Manhattan Club (owned by his uncles), Hatsis Brothers, Walker Bank, and as a Government Relations Specialist for Plateau Mining, Getty Oil, Texaco, AMOCO, Cyprus-Ajax Mining, and Consolidation Coal.
As a young man, Mike joined the Utah State University football team, starting both ways as center and nose guard. Mike was one of four freshmen to receive a full-ride football scholarship. No prouder Utah State Aggie ever lived! When sidelined by a football injury, he returned to Price, Utah, to become captain of the College of Eastern Utah football team. The Bunnell-Dmitrich Athletic Center, located at USU Eastern, was named after Mike.
Mike Dmitrich dedicated his life to public service in his beloved State of Utah. Mike was elected to the Utah House of Representatives in 1968 at the age of 31, appointed to the Utah State Senate in 1991, and elected to the Senate in 1992. He honorably served in the House and Senate continuously for 40 years, representing Utah's citizens in eastern and southern Utah. He served as House Minority Leader (1983-1990) and Senate Minority Leader (2001-2008) during his legislative career. He retired from legislative service in 2008. Mike was the second longest-serving legislator with 40 consecutive years of service in the State of Utah.
Throughout his legislative career, Mike was a resounding voice for his constituents, blue-collar workers, the disenfranchised, and the forgotten. He was a champion for public and higher education and for the health and economic stability of Utah's families.
During his 40-year legislative career, Mike received many honors and awards. Among them are the Utah State University Honorary Degree of Doctorate of Law (2011), the Utah State University 2009 Distinguished Service Award, the College of Eastern Utah 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award, the 2008 Utah Taxpayers Association Lifetime Service Award, and the Utah Mining Association 2007 Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2009, Highway 6 was designated as the "Mike Dmitrich Highway." Throughout his career, he worked towards continuous funding for safety. The name was later changed to the Mike Dmitrich Byway (US Highway 6 from I-15 to I-70.) He was an Honorary Colonel in the Utah Highway Patrol.
In addition to family and community service, Mike loved sports and was an avid participant, referee, and spectator. For decades, Mike frequently refereed high school basketball and football games. His photo hangs in the Utah High School Hall of Fame as a sports official. He is a recipient of the Utah Sports Hall of Fame Foundation Distinguished Service Award.
Mike loved to watch the Utah Jazz, but his passion was golf. He was a devoted and talented golfer who would proudly tell you he shot a round of 80 at 80 years old. He was one of the OG's of the "Carbon County Open." He played in many state and regional golf tournaments, many for charity, and was particularly interested in providing opportunities for the average citizen to experience this wonderful game.
Mike is survived by his wife Georgia (Bo), his children Stephanie (Bill), Tony (Sara), and Dana Marie; grandchildren MJ Gardner (Alexia), Beux (Cadence), and Alex (Nita); great-grandchildren Henry, Lucy Rose, and Delilah Mae; and sister-in-law Marilyn Zeller (Scottie & Frankie Lynn), and many Milovich cousins.
Big Mike was a Mountain of a Man who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. "Have a drink on him." He requested no services.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mike Dmitrich
Sponsored by Neptune Society - Las Vegas.
James C Blair
December 10, 2024
So sorry to hear of Mike´s passing, got to play a little golf with Mike over the years and was able to learn a lot about politics from him. Thanks for your friendship. James C Blair
Patricia Gourdin
November 17, 2024
Just saw that Mike had bbn passed and wanted to send my condolences to Bo and family. We all had some great times at the mixed best ball at Carbon CC, so many fun memories
John Niedermaier
October 13, 2024
My condolences to the Family. I enjoyed golfing with Mike in Mesquite . We had many laughs and good rounds. Our common denominator was neuropathy in our feet.
Connie Everett-Fry
October 10, 2024
Bo, Steph, Dana, Tony and families. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. So, so sorry
Lori Lopez
October 10, 2024
Thoughts and prayers to your Family. It was an honor to have known Mike!
Kolette Ottley Heath
October 10, 2024
One of the best Senators for the state of Utah and Democratic Party. Always fun to see him in Mesquite, NV. I will miss your kindness and friendship.
Larry Leonard
October 7, 2024
Everyone has a Mike DMITRICH story. Among others one stands out for me. MIKE was always trying to get me to play in the " "open" on Sunday. I kept telling him "I can´t play golf on Sunday." He said, " if I can get you an excuse from one of the " Brethren" will you then golf on Sunday?" I said, "if you can get me a pass, I will." Of course, Mike Dimitrich being as prominent in the legislature as he was, had many connections with the "brethren" at LDS church headquarters. He tried to negotiate that deal, but that was one of the few that he couldn´t swing. We had a good many laughs about that incident. I loved Mike´s sense of humor. Dang it... I loved MIKE! When Mike left, he took a piece of my heart with him. I know I speak for many others who knew MIKE who feel the same way.
Sheila Davis
October 7, 2024
I had the privilege of meeting Mike last year at the Democratic Convention in Price, Utah. His daughter Dana & I accompanied Mike & Georgia to the first presentation of the Mike and Georgia Dmitrich lifetime achievement award. I was so honored to hear him speak as a true democrat. Over the past year and a half I got to know him on a personal level, what a mountain of a man. The love he had for my friend Dana was incredible. He will be truly missed. My condolences go out to his entire family. RIP
Alex Wheeler
October 7, 2024
I remember travelling down to Mesquite a few years back and meeting at the Starbucks with Mike just talking about life...aging, health, sports, investments and then heading to see Bo at the house and I am so saddened to hear of his passing. He was a true mentor and statesman.
Karen W Morgan
October 6, 2024
I´m deeply saddened by Senator Mike´s passing. It was my privilege to serve with him in the Utah Legislature. He was a great mentor and dear friend.
October 4, 2024
I am so proud of having served alongside you, in the State Legislature, sharing a friendship with part of your family today. Thank you for your friendship, your service, and your all-round good guy. RIP Brother.
Kevin Boardman
October 3, 2024
What an honor to have known, worked and played with Mike. His love of country, family and friends were manifest frequently, whether it be representing his constituents on the 'Hill', or sinking a birdie putt on the golf course. Many thanks to Bo for having shared him with us.
Judi Bishop
October 3, 2024
Mike's family, so hard to learn of the loss of
lifetime friends. Mike was a unique human. Enjoyed his wit, sarcasm, sense of humor, intelligence and serious side
His love of family n friends was an assist others valued. R.I.P you served Carbon county and the rest of Utah honorably.
Greg Passic
October 3, 2024
Jon and I have been trying to figure out how to get in touch with you and your family Bo. Mike was like a big brother to us. We consider ourselves part of your family. I noted Mike's passing on the Friends of Carbon County FB page. The response to that post includes many people who shared their love and condolences to you. Mike was a member of that group. If you can access that page you'll be able to read the comments. Love to you and your family. Greg and Jon
Bill Landels
October 3, 2024
I had the privilege of working with Mike as Minority Leader when I was EVP, Utah Power, 1999- 2004
He was tough, unflinching but fair in his challenges and demands on our Company to do the right thing for the many causes and people he fought for.
He always kept his word in the toughest situations, a quality of honesty I had rarely experienced.
Mike and Bo also became truly great friends to me and my wife Jessie as we settled in from Scotland
Without hesitation I can say that Mike was one of the best human beings I ever met.
Sincere condolences and much love to Bo and family. God Bless.
Bill Landels (Scotland)
David Spatafore
October 3, 2024
Bo, Dana and family, I offer my deepest condolences and sympathy to you and the entire Dmitrich family. I first met MIke when my family opened a bank account for me as a teen. Then, as you know, I worked many years with Mike as he was a Representative and then as a Senator. Mike was a great man. He made a huge imprint on the state of Utah, and within his district primarily in Carbon and Emery Counties. His dedication to public service was second to none. I hope I helped him in setting policy through legislation for his constituents and the state. I remember sharing many laughs and stories with Mike in his office. May he rest in peace and may God shine his light on each of you as you and we all say good bye to one of Utah´s greatest!
Robert and Carolyn Hunter
October 3, 2024
What a wonderful guy. We have great memories of him in th Walker Bank days.
Sending all of you our sympathies.
Nolan Karras
October 3, 2024
I served with Mike when we both were in the Utah House with him serving as minority leader. My tribute to Mike is simple: you could trust Mike Dmitrich!
To his family I express my deepest condolences and sympathies. I suspect he has already joined a golf club and is playing 36 holes today
Kind regards
Nolan Karras
George Zoolakis
October 3, 2024
Condolence to Bo and family. I was a classmate at Carbon Senior High School with Mike and his best friend, Phil Halamandaris.
Nancy Ferderber
October 2, 2024
Mike & Bo lived across the street from me & my family for over 20 years. I have fond memories of our neighborhood during that time. Rest in peace my friend.
Ron Allen
October 2, 2024
Mike was one of a kind! I have too many funny and inspiring stories to post here but they all are fondest of memories now.
Gary Rynearson
October 2, 2024
Worked with Mike at Walker Bank in the 60´s!
Great Man! Good Freind!
Margaret Dayton
October 2, 2024
I am the only senator who served with Mike who also voted for Mike! When we lived in Price, my husband and I always voted for Mike. (True - we were not democrats, but he was the only one on the ballot - and we knew he cared about our area of the state - and he was our friend) When I was a Republican senator elected from Utah County, Mike and I served in the Senate together! My husband and I were pleased to continue our friendship with him and Bo from that arena. Great guy! Great times shared!
Hugs to Mikes dear ones from Margaret and Lynn Dayton
Dawn Stevenson
October 2, 2024
Mike was a Senator when I was working at the Utah State Board of Education over school counseling and Student Services. He was indeed a friend of public education. He was also warm, kind and funny. I miss him.
Ronnie Jewkes and Jan Siaperas
October 2, 2024
I played golf with Mike for 40 years. I think of Mike and Bo as my uncle and aunt. I have thought about them often. My prayers go out to Aunt Bo, Toshi, Dana And Tony. May god keep you Uncle Mike and set up tee times for when we meet again.
Amy Joi O'Donoghue
October 2, 2024
I knew next to nothing my first year covering the legislature as a member of the media, but Mike was kind, patient, jovial and always had time for a question. He did believe in the underserved and fought hard for rural communities. I have missed his laughter and candor. I'm sure he's in heaven helping God build something or exercising his great talent at diplomacy. God speed. It fits :)
Lorie Fowlke
October 2, 2024
I served with Mike in the legislature for six years. He was always a gentleman and a gentle man. He loved the idea that I had been the first female police officer in Santa Barbara and would tell anyone around whenever we were together. I think of him fondly as a gentle giant who cared about people, especially the ones in SE Utah.
Lorie Fowlke
Robert B. Sykes
October 2, 2024
I served with Mike for six years in the Utah House of Representatives. We were on opposite sides of the aisle. But I will always remember Mike as hard working, courageous, honorable and smart. He truly cared about people. He was a friend.
Robert B. Sykes
John L. Valentine
October 2, 2024
Mike was a class act. We served together for 26 years, in both the Utah House of Representatives and in the Senate. He was "my" minority leader in the Senate when I was the President of the Senate. The political world could take a lesson of how to govern from the way he conducted himself. We would disagree, but were able to find common ground where we could agree and it resulted in better policy and legislation. You will be missed my friend.
John L. Valentine
Boyd Bell
October 2, 2024
I officiated many games with Mike h was my mentor I will never forget him,thank you Mike .NBoyd Bell
Des Barker
October 1, 2024
Mike was a great partner across party lines to secure Utah jobs and prosperity. Will always have a soft spot for his practical sense of politics to benefit Utahns. We could use more of Mike's influence in today's broken political world. Rest in peace my friend. Des Barker
George Compagni
October 1, 2024
My Deepest Sympathies to Bo and family for your loss. Mike was a joy to be around, whether on the golf course or just having coffee at the High Spot. May he Rest In Peace.
Travis Wood
October 1, 2024
What a great man. He was always in my corner. I will miss him greatly
Tom Bingham
October 1, 2024
I was blessed to work with Mike through most of his 40 years in the Utah House of Representatives and the Utah Senate. He was a great friend to all on both sides of the aisle. The state of Utah is a better place for Mike having been in it. Rest in peace my friend.
Tom Bingham
Showing 1 - 34 of 34 results
Make a Donation
in Mike Dmitrich's name
Memorial Events
for Mike Dmitrich
Funeral services provided by:
Neptune Society - Las Vegas8544 West Lake Mead Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89128
How to support Mike'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 Mike Dmitrich'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
