Mike McKeachnie

Michael Wayne McKeachnie was born on January 14, 1960, in Rock Springs, Wyoming, to Janice and William McKeachnie. On the morning of August 20, 2025, Mike passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home, surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to those he held dear.

On April 8, 1978, Mike married his soulmate, Debbie Womack, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures. Their bond was further sealed for time and eternity in the Vernal Temple on October 12, 2002. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising three children: Tyler McKeachnie, Cody McKeachnie (Cara), and Marissa McKeachnie (Chase Norton). Mike's pride in his children was boundless, and he cherished every moment spent watching them raise families of their own.

Mike's career in the oil patch spanned decades, where he worked as a roughneck, truck driver, and tool hand. His strong work ethic and infectious personality made him a friend to all, forging deep connections with colleagues who remained close long after their paths diverged.

An avid outdoorsman, Mike's heart was most at home in the mountains. Whether casting a line on fishing trips to Alaska with his cherished friends and family or retreating to his cabin on Diamond Mountain, he found joy in the serenity of nature. These moments, filled with campfire stories, shared meals, and the beauty of the wilderness, were among his most treasured.

Above all, Mike was a family man. He wore many titles—son, brother, husband, father—but none fit him as perfectly as Grandpa. Known as "Papa Mike" to his 13 grandchildren and countless others, including the children of cousins, nieces, nephews, and neighbors, he had an extraordinary gift for making every child feel loved and valued. His playful spirit, endless patience, and warm hugs made him a beloved figure to all who knew him, and his home was a haven where anyone could count on his support and kindness. The pool was also always open.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, William and Janice McKeachnie; his in-laws, Dale and Cheri Womack; his nephew, Beau J. Dugan Furrh; and his brother-in-law, Tommy Womack. 

He is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie Womack; his children, Tyler McKeachnie, Cody McKeachnie (Cara), and Marissa McKeachnie (Chase Norton), brother John McKeachnie (Delsi), Sisters Karen Wallen, Shelley Mclain, brother-in-law Scott Womack (Paige), Sister-in-law Julie Loveland (Lonny), Sister-in-law Lorri Furrh (Monte), 7 nephews, 8 nieces, and his 13 grandchildren, who will carry his love and lessons forward.

Mike's life was a testament to the power of love, friendship, and family. His laughter echoed through the mountains, his kindness touched countless lives, and his legacy will endure in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we find comfort in knowing that his spirit will forever watch over those he loved so dearly.

Funeral Services will be held Monday, August 25, 2025 at 10 AM at the Uintah Conference Center, with viewings held Sunday, from 6-8 PM at the Mortuary and 1 hour prior to service at the Conference Center.

Burial will be in the Vernal Memorial Park, under the direction of Blackburn Vernal Mortuary.