Michael Wasser

Dr. Michael Wasser always enjoyed a challenge. He chose the most demanding sports to play (rugby, hockey, skiing, biking), and one of the most competitive professions to pursue (orthopaedic surgery) and succeeded with grace, humility and compassion. Dr. Wasser of Laramie, WY, passed away Wednesday, June 16, 2021, at 66. Michael died while biking in the mountains with his friends, one of his most beloved past times. He is survived by his mother Leah, wife Elysa, sisters Debbie and Ellen, children Austin, Lily, Max, Amelia, and his fifth (and favorite) child, his Goldendoodle Brooklyn. Michael was preceded in death by his father Bernie, and Lily and Max’s mother, Debra.

Michael was born in Brooklyn, New York, and spent his childhood in Queens, New York, and White Meadow Lake, New Jersey. He graduated from Union College and proceeded to get his medical degree from New Jersey Medical School. Michael moved to Laramie, WY, in 1988 to join Gem City Bone and Joint (Premier Bone and Joint) as a shoulder and knee specialist. He was passionate about his work as a member of the University of Wyoming sports medicine team. After retiring from his practice in Laramie, Michael and Elysa moved to Boulder, CO, to be closer to their children. Michael left his retirement to join Rural Partners in Medicine in 2016, starting a practice to serve patients in rural Nebraska.

Every word that Michael said was either funny, wise or both, and it was always correct. You had to listen closely because he would only say his joke once. His children’s favorite memories are of Michael teaching them how to ski, and more importantly, the best way to enjoy skiing on a perfect powder day: hooting and hollering down Steamboat mountain. When anyone complained about long walks or their feet hurting, he talked about surviving on berries while backpacking with the grizzlies in Alaska. Michael was deeply passionate about Israel, and he supported Israel through AIPAC where he served as the Wyoming State Chair for over two decades.

We ask that in lieu of flowers please make a donation in Michael’s name to the Congregation Har Hashem Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund or the Boulder JCC. Michael will be deeply missed by all those who were part of his life.