Michael Jaenish

1943 - 2016

1943 ~ 2016
Michael William Jaenish, age 72, resident of Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away at his home from Parkinson's disease on the evening of August 11, 2016. Michael was with his family.
Michael was born to Eric and Margot Jaenish in Germany, on October 22, 1943, and immigrated to Utah with his family at the age of 7. Michael taught himself English through reading comic books, a story he loved to tell.
Michael is survived by his wife, Christine Eckenroth Jaenish, first wife MaryAnn Brady; his two children, Laura Baker and Brandon Jaenish; three grandchildren, Megan Whitney, Zachary Jaenish, and Wyatt Jaenish; and two siblings Ralph Jaenish and Dolores Jaenish.
Michael was a graduate of California State at Los Angeles, and the University of Utah School of Law. Upon completing his formal education, Michael went to work for the Navajo Indian Reservation assisting with Program Development. He spent his later career as a defense attorney working in Federal Court, and helping others. Michael was also a General Contractor, and could fix anything! He took much pride in his and Chris' home, which he remodeled and maintained himself, and never tired of showing his latest project to others. Michael loved a good argument, always had an opinion, and you needed to be on your toes to take on any debate with Michael!
Michael was a voracious reader throughout his life, and would never hesitate to use an appropriate Mark Twain quote whenever the situation called for succinctly stated wisdom. Michael also enjoyed camping and river rafting, and he took many trips down the Grand Canyon, which was his favorite place in the world. Per his wishes, his ashes will be scattered there, by his close friend Steve Jones.
Rather than a Memorial Service, Michael's wishes were to have a living wake, which was held at his home on July 30, 2016. Many of his friends and family attended, or visited him individually either before or after his party. This brought great peace to Michael as he neared the end of his life. As Michael would often say, "There you have it."
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.