Michael Jay Davidson, 67, of Las Vegas, passed away Tuesday, August 27, 2019. The son of Halvard J Davidson and Marilyn Smith, he was born in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was raised in Manti, Utah where he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and exploring in the mountains and valleys surrounding Manti. He became a talented musician, playing the piano and trumpet and excelled in academics. He played on the tennis team and was the National Honor Society president, graduating from Manti High School in 1969.
Michael served as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Norway mission from 1970-1972. He pursued higher education at Snow College and the University of Utah, earning a Bachelor degree in Accountancy in 1975. He studied Dentistry at the University of the Pacific in San Francisco, California and received a doctorate of dental surgery (DDS) in 1978.
Michael met his sweetheart and the love of his life, Cheryll Higham, while attending the University of Utah. They were married on August 24, 1973 in the Salt Lake Temple and recently celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary. Together they raised their family of 5 children. Michael was a devoted husband and father. He was dedicated to loving, teaching, and providing for his family. He derived his greatest joy and satisfaction from enjoying time together with his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Michael was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His commitment to service in any capacity and calling reflected the enduring love he had for the Lord and his steadfast testimony of the Savior. Callings where he served include sunday school teacher, seminary instructor, Elders quorum president, ward clerk, Bishop, High Councilor, and most recently as an ordinance worker at the Las Vegas Temple.
Michael also served his country as an officer in the US Army for 26 years. He was a Board Certified General Dentist and also a commander of multiple clinics, achieving the rank of Colonel. His military service included assignments in Alaska, Colorado, Texas, Virginia, Italy, & Germany. Michael was passionate for quality and a perfectionist in his professional work. Following his service in the Military, he performed Dentistry at San Vicente Catholic Charity and worked for Texas Tech University. Michael was blessed by and grateful for his association with many wonderful people throughout his career and church service.
Michael was proactive in maintaining close ties with family and friends. He sought to lift and encourage everyone around him. He broke down barriers with jokes, puns, and his happy countenance. Michael lived a life of faith and leaves his family a lasting legacy of diligent service, integrity, and unwavering testimony.
He is survived by his wife Cheryll and their children Michael Jeffrey (Angela), Spencer Mark, Benjamin Douglas (Amy), Michelle Marie (Jean), Cherilyn June (Justin) and sisters Julia (Hardy), Carol, Shauna (Byron), Jane (Mark), Becky (Tim) and 10 wonderful grandchildren. Michael was preceded in passing by his loving parents Halvard and Marilyn.
