Michael Eugene Short

Michael Eugene Short, born on November 13, 1948, in Warrington Faugier, Virginia, passed away November 6, 2024, in Payson, Utah, at home with his family nearby, after a night of laughter, storytelling, and wild debates on world events. At the age of 75, he went home to his mother, leaving behind a legacy of wit, humor, a bottomless bucket of advice, and an unwavering faith that was truly unshakable.

Mike’s career journey had a bit of everything and he wore many hats as a shop manager, dabbled in accounting, and ended his over 30 year career as the shipping and receiving manager at Timet Manufacturing in Henderson, Nevada. However, his biggest accomplishments lay not just in his career, but in graduating from Brigham Young University with a Bachelor’s in History and fulfilling his dream of creating a farmhouse in Missouri—a serene sanctuary where wonderful friendships were forged. 

Nothing brought more joy to Mike than fatherhood. According to his journal, “Once I had children, they came first,” a mantra he repeated in countless notes of encouragement left for all five kids. His journal overflowed with love and guidance, making it abundantly clear that his greatest joy was his family.

Mike was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, living a life guided by deep faith and service. He loved sharing the story of his family’s conversion and their journey to embrace the gospel, a tale that made its way into many of the hundreds of talks he delivered over the years. Mike served in numerous roles within the church, including several Bishoprics, as a Seminary teacher, a Sunday school teacher, and as a stake missionary, always bringing his trademark warmth and humor. In his later years, his passion for family history deepened, and he poured his time and energy into genealogy work.

Mike was a born storyteller, never without a quick quip or an amusing anecdote that lit up any gathering. “Did you hear the one about…” often launched listeners into tales of his boyhood in Missouri, lively debates about politics, or warm accounts of the “good people” he met along the way. No family meal was complete without Mike’s playful theatrics as he pretended to suffer through his vegetables, all while captivating his grandchildren with his animated storytelling. These moments are now cherished echoes, memories that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who had the joy of sharing a table—and a laugh—with him.

He served valiantly in the United States Army for three years, including a deployment to Vietnam during the war. This chapter of his life was not one he openly shared all the time but he felt great pride in his service.  

Mike is survived by seven of his nine brothers and sisters, his beloved children: Adam (Shelly) Short, Rachel (Wade) Davis, Joseph (Erin) Short, Daniel (Mariela) Short, and Jacob (Jenelle) Short. Each of these remarkable individuals carries a piece of his spirit with them, reflecting the profound love and dedication he showed as a father. His pride extended into the next generation, shining brightly in the lives of his grandchildren: Emily Ann (23), Julianna Rae (22), Adam Rider (20), Sheldon James (17), Brooklyn LaNore (14), Trevor Rae (12), Isaac John (8), Michael Joseph (21), Ora Dawn (19), Jordan Zachary (17), Abigail LaNore (16), and Natalie McKenna (14). They were his greatest blessings and also his biggest fans.

As we mourn the passing of Mike, we will gather for a graveside service on November 14, 2024 at 2PM, at Montevallo Cemetery in Montevallo Township, Missouri. Here, we will lay him to rest next to his Grandmother, Flossie, while he awaits the return of his Savior, Jesus Christ. There will be a funeral service in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 23rd at 10AM at the LDS Church 3901 East Viking Road, Las Vegas Nevada 89121.