Michael K. Padget

Michael K. Padget (Mike), 81, passed away on March 31, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, humor, and deep love for his family, community, and the life he built.

Michael was born on November 26, 1944, in Laramie, Wyoming, to George Padget and Shirley Kay Padget. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife Roxann Padget; his son Christopher Michael Padget; and many cherished “fur-children” Olly, Bud, Frosty, Sproket, Nanook, Molly, Bo, and Callie.

He is survived by his sister Sharon Moore and her husband Harry Moore; his children Michelle Fletcher and her husband Kerry Fletcher, James Padget and his wife April Padget, and Robert Padget and his wife Anastasia Padget; his grandchildren Jason, Kayla, Emily, Rebecca, Tyler, Connor, AmandaLee, Julieanya, and Emmalyn; and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his loyal and loving dog, Roxy.

Michael attended the University of Wyoming, where he met the love of his life, Roxann. The two were married on October 6, 1966, at First Methodist Church in Cheyenne, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love and shared adventure.

In 1967, Michael and Roxann moved to Rawlins, where he began working for the Rawlins Daily Times. Their journey then took them to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he worked for the Albuquerque Journal. In 1973, they returned to Rawlins, where Michael became editor of the Rawlins Daily Times before answering a new calling with the Rawlins Fire Department. His service there became one of his greatest passions.

Never one to stop growing, Michael later returned to the University of Wyoming to study social sciences and substance abuse, leading him to a meaningful career as a group counselor with Southeast Wyoming Mental Health. Through this work, he touched countless lives with compassion and understanding.

Michael and Roxann eventually built their dream home in Table Mountain Ranches, where they created years of memories before his retirement in 2012.

Michael was a man of many passions. He loved fishing, was an avid sports fan, and rarely missed cheering on the Wyoming Cowboys. He had a natural talent for photography and could often be found behind the lens capturing life’s quiet moments. He also had a soft spot for Hallmark movies.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Wiederspahn-Radomsky Chapel in Cheyenne.