Michael Tony Archuleta

(born Miguel Antonio Archuleta to Max J Archuleta and Tonita Trujillo Archuleta)

January 18, 1929 – December 6, 2025

Grandpa, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on the night of December 6th, surrounded by the love of his family. He was the oldest of five siblings and carried a deep sense of responsibility, leadership, and strength from a young age that followed him throughout his life.

Grandpa married his beloved wife, Inez Archuleta (Mary Inez Rushton), on October 1, 1948. Though they endured the heartbreak of losing a stillborn son, they went on to build a beautiful life together and raise three strong, devoted sons.

A proud member of ROTC in his youth, he trained as a paratrooper for the Korean War and completed several jumps during his service. Though he did not see combat, he served his country with honor and humility something his family has always been proud of, even when he didn’t give himself enough credit.

Grandpa was the definition of a hardworking man. A master cement finisher, he helped build the very city his family still lives in curbs, gutters, sidewalks, foundations, and countless structures that stand today because of his craftsmanship. Over the years, he owned dump trucks and tractors, expanded into asphalt work, and oversaw every detail of his projects. At just 19 years old, he started his own construction company, laying the foundation for his lifelong dedication to providing for his loved ones.

His sons played an integral role in building the family construction business alongside him. Johnnie devoted his career to the company for many years before retiring, while Dee later branched off to start his own successful trucking business.

In the 1950s, he owned multiple airplanes, always chasing big dreams with courage and curiosity. He was an outdoorsman through and through, happiest while hunting, riding horses, or later in life, his beloved mules. He became involved with the Rocky Mountain Mule Club and especially loved riding in parades and wagon events. One of his most treasured memories was riding across Utah in the 1996 Centennial Wagon Train with his granddaughter, traveling the old-fashioned way in a buggy that made them both feel like they had stepped back in time.

A man of deep faith, Grandpa was a longstanding member of Mt Calvary Assembly of God. When the church relocated more than 20 years ago, he poured his heart, time, and resources into helping build the new sanctuary — donating equipment, labor, and nearly $60,000 to ensure a spiritual home for generations to come.

He loved music and especially loved singing while his family played the piano and guitar. Grandpa had a deep, rich singing voice that brought joy to all who heard him. Though he always wanted to learn the banjo, his family remembers how much happiness he found in simply being part of the music. He was a Scout Master during his boys’ childhood and taught them not only practical skills, but integrity, humor, and the value of hard work.

Above all, he cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each one a source of pride and joy. One great-grandchild, in particular, held a special place in his heart Junior, who grew up in his home and later became his devoted caretaker in his final years. Their bond was deep and meaningful; Grandpa loved that Junior shared his name, just as he himself had been a “Junior” when he was young. That connection brought him comfort, pride, and love every single day. Grandpa treasured the closeness of his family and believed deeply in keeping everyone together, a value that guided his life and inspired all who knew him.

Grandpa lived a full and beautiful life with many passions, stories, and adventures. Over the years he collected hobbies, friends, and memories. He owned a beautiful 1952 Cadillac Coupe DeVille and enjoyed being a member of the Cadillac Club another chapter in a life filled with pride, joy, and craftsmanship.

Preceded in death by: his wife, Inez Archuleta (Mary Inez Rushton); his son, Victor Archuleta; and his brothers, Ivo and Tito Archuleta.

Survived by: his sister's, Rita (Bennett) Stone and Lydia (Eddie) Martinez. His son's Johnnie Archuleta and Dee (Kristie) Archuleta; grandchildren, Tawnie Archuleta, Lindsey (Spencer) Munns, Johnna Archuleta, and Dallas Archuleta; and great-grandchildren, Isaac, Junior, Lyric, Drake, Maxwell, Waylon, Joshua, and Inez.

He leaves behind a legacy of faith, strength, generosity, and love. The foundations he built both in concrete, asphalt, and in the hearts of his family will stand strong for generations to come.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 2:00 PM in the Memorial Mountain View Mortuary chapel - 3115 East 7800 South, Cottonwood Heights, Utah 84121. A Viewing will be held from 12:00 - 1:45 PM. Interment at Memorial Mountain View Cemetery.