Michael Anthony Barkins

With courage and dignity, Michael Anthony Barkins peacefully left this earth on January 10, 2009 with his children at his side and in his sweetheart’s arms, after a valiant struggle with cancer.

Mike was born to Jack Douglas and Marcile Silvers Barkins on August 17, 1956 in Dayton, Ohio. He spent his youth in Ohio growing up with Sisters, Pat and Sue and many loyal and lifelong friends. All who know Mike can testify to his sense of humor, love of life and gentle spirit. Family were friends and friends were family.

After graduating from Northmont High School he joined the Navy in 1976 at the age of 19 and was stationed at Miramar Naval Air Station in San Diego where he served in the Avionics Division, achieving engineer status. Mike consistently received the highest professional reviews and numerous honors recognizing his professionalism, promptness, attention to detail, eagerness to learn and willingness to accept any task; qualities that he exhibited in all areas of his life.

Upon leaving the Navy, Mike went to work for National Semiconductor and, while in Salt Lake City in temporary assignment he fell in love with the mountains, skiing, and the people, and chose to permanently transfer to Utah. He met and fell in love with Rose Marie Watson on an ice skating rink and they were married in 1984. Mike joined the LDS Church and their marriage was later solemnized in the Jordan River Temple. He was a devoted Father. They have raised their two beautiful children, a son, Morgan, and a daughter Mikelle.

As an engineer Mike loved using his mind and hands to accomplish any needed task; at home at work, or in the neighborhood he was always willing to help others. Mike worked for Maytag and has enjoyed and appreciated the support and friendship of Dan and his fellow employees.

Mike loved being with family, both in Ohio and Utah and his willingness to share his love of fireworks on special occasions will be sorely missed by children and grownups alike. He was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife, Rose Marie, Children, Morgan and Mikelle; sisters, Pat (Dennis) Meyer and Sue (Jim) Davis and many loving nieces and nephews. All were brought together by Mike.

The Barkins Family wishes to express their gratitude to the many friends and neighbors who have served them in so many thoughtful ways; and for the compassionate care shown by the staff at Huntsman Medical Center and Rocky Mountain Hospice.

Funeral Services will be held, Saturday, January 17, 2009, 11:00 am at Jenkins-Soffe South Valley, 1007 W. South Jordan Parkway (10600 So.), where friends are invited to attend a viewing Friday from 6-8 pm and one hour prior to the service.