Michael A. Beard
Michael A. Beard, age 85, passed away peacefully in his Fruit Heights home on March 20, 2026, with his beloved wife, Karol, by his side. Never one for the traditional, Mike preferred to write his own narrative focusing instead on a life lived with integrity and purpose.
Mike was a man of strong convictions. He often joked that his children, Michelle Bennett (Page), Lynelle Jensen (Rusty), Jacki Rhoton (Vince), Doug Beard, and Justin Beard (Jenn) required a great deal of tolerance and open-mindedness to navigate life with him as their father. He held immense pride in the adults his children became, attributing their success and stability to the influence of their mother, Karol, whom he called the "glue" of the family. His legacy continues through a sprawling and vibrant family, including 20 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren (and 3 on the way).
Mike’s professional life was a testament to his work ethic and curiosity. His journey began in wrecking yards and service stations in Southern Utah, eventually leading him to the world of science as a Clinical Laboratorian. He dedicated 28 years to Weber State University as a professor of Clinical Laboratory Science, a tenure he looked back on with a sense of "WOW!" and deep appreciation for his students and colleagues.
Mike was a lifelong student, earning a Master’s degree in Clinical Laboratory Science from the University of Utah and a Doctorate in Education from Brigham Young University. While his formal studies were in science and education, he grew to deeply appreciate the study of human nature as a personal avocation.
Beyond his academic and professional pursuits, Mike was a man of remarkable generosity. He possessed a deep-seated concern for those less fortunate than himself, regularly giving to others in need.
After retirement from Weber State, Mike never truly slowed down. He lived for the next adventure, whether he was rock crawling through rugged terrain in his old Jeep Scrambler or exploring the depths of the earth with his caving club. He found great joy in sharing his love for the outdoors through rock hounding with his grandkids, ensuring that every family vacation was centered around discovery and exploration.
As Mike looked back on his life, he noted: "Life was good to me. I don’t know of any individual that had the power to make me hate them. Some came close. Rather, I really liked most all people I ever met and enjoyed every job I ever had." He leaves behind a family that will remember his adventurous spirit and unfailing love and support. They will always cherish those memories.
Friends and family are invited to attend a Celebration of Life open house to honor Mike on April 9th, 2026 at the Hideaway on Angel, 897 South Angel St, Layton from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.