Michael Walton's Obituary
Michael (Wally) L Walton July 15, 1952 - July 2, 2023
Michael (Wally) Walton, 70, of Salt Lake City passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on July 2, 2023. Mike was born in Auburn, WY on July 15, 1952, to Nethie and William Lyle Walton. When he was seven his family moved to Logan, UT where he attended high school and a semester at Utah State. Growing up there were quite a few Michaels in school and as friends, which resulted in him receiving the nickname Wally. He worked as a shipping manager for EDO Corp (now L3Harris) for 35 years and spent the last five years retired. He had many close friends that were all "uncles" to his children. One particular close friendship was with Ernie Valdez and his family that soon become his second family. He enjoyed participating in golfing, fishing, and hunting. He was a big fan of watching college football (Go Utes!) and the NBA (go Jazz!). You were also sure to catch him watching the Hallmark channel, especially their Christmas movies.
Mike first met Valerie Crittenden after moving to Salt Lake City in 1977. After 43 years together, they decided to make it official on March 20, 2020 and were married for the last three years. His greatest joy came from his family. He was a proud father of four; Cory Jorgensen, Ryan Walton, Holly Crittenden, and Tara Crittenden; and an honorary dad to Marci Cox. He loved his grandchildren Emmit and Chloe (Cory); Kaitlyn, Noah, and Cole (Ryan); and Cameron (Tara) and was proud to be a grandpa. He was preceded in death by Nethie Walton (mother), William Lyle Walton (father), Forrest Walton (brother), Junior Walton (brother), Verla Izzatt (sister), and Dean Walton (brother).
The family would like to express their deepest thanks and gratitude to all of those who have contacted them, expressed condolences, and donated funds.
In place of a funeral, we will have a graveside service on Monday, July 10, 2023, at 1 pm at the Auburn, WY Cemetery. The Celebration of Life will be held on July 15, 2023, at 3 pm at Mike and Valerie’s home.
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