Thank you, Pauline Goldthorpe Leeman, for forwarding this information.

Michael Kane1952 - 2026

Skyline High SchoolUniversity of UtahUtah State University

FUNERAL HOME

Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Chapel & Cremation Center - South Jordan

1007 W South Jordan Parkway

South Jordan, Utah

UPCOMING SERVICE

Service

Apr. 9, 2026

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Celebration of Life at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home

Michael Kane Obituary

Dr. Michael David Kane

1952 - 2026

- Dr. Michael David Kane, age 74, passed away peacefully at home – surrounded by his wife and children – in West Jordan, Utah, on March 27, 2026.

Michael was born on February 5, 1952, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to David Lee and Elaine Montgomery Kane. He was raised in the East Mill Creek area, and graduated from Skyline High School in 1970, where he learned to love the outdoors and played multiple sports, including basketball and soccer.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Kane, and his children: Jason Helm, Cameron Goodwin (Paige), Kellee Goodwin Murdock (Jacob), Dallas Kane, Sierra Kane Stukey (Braydon), and Morgan Kane Brons (Colin). He is also survived by his sister, Patricia Romney (Fred), and his brother, Steven Kane (Deseret), along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will deeply miss him.

Michael was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and faithfully served a two-year mission in the Rochester New York Mission. During this time, he participated in the Hill Cumorah Pageant in Palmyra, New York, an experience he carried with him throughout his life.

Michael began his career in construction followed by working for the county as a probation officer before pursuing higher education. From the moment he committed to his education, he pursued it with relentless determination. Education became a defining pillar in his life, not only as a personal pursuit but as a gift he sought to pass on to others. Michael believed deeply that education is one of life's highest callings and consistently encouraged those around him to pursue it with the same conviction.

He earned his Bachelor of Science, graduating cum laude, from the University of Utah in 1976, where he also played basketball. He went on to receive his Master of Science from the University of Utah in 1979 and was recognized that same year as one of the Outstanding Young Men of America for his professional achievement, leadership, and service to the community.

In 2007, Michael earned his Ph.D. in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism from the University of Utah. His doctoral work culminated in his book, Country Never Trod (2022), an historical account of William Lewis Manly's 1849 voyage down Utah's Green River. Continuing his lifelong pursuit of knowledge, he later earned his MBA from Utah State University in 2017.

In 1989, Michael founded Lone Eagle Resort in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, widely regarded as one of the most successful whitewater rafting companies. With Barbara by his side, the resort grew into a destination where thousands of guests each year experienced the beauty, adventure, and spirit of the American West. Among those he guided was a sitting U.S. president, whom he took down the Snake River twice under the Lone Eagle banner. This experience reflected both the scale of his success and the trust he earned through his expertise.

After selling Lone Eagle in 2000, Michael served as General Manager of Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, located on the east rim of Zion National Park in Southern Utah. From 2004 to 2015, he commuted between Salt Lake City and Zion, balancing his responsibilities of family and work. He took great pride in the experiences he created and the legacy he built at Zion Ponderosa.

Michael also served as an adjunct professor and advisory council member for the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism at the University of Utah until his retirement in 2022. In the classroom, he regarded his students not simply as learners, but as "scholars," a reflection of the deep respect he held for education and for those who pursued it. He instilled in his scholars the belief that guided his life: that learning is both a privilege and a responsibility. So profound was his influence on his scholars and fellow faculty that the University of Utah, in partnership with the Neeleman family, established the Dr. Michael Kane Scholarship in his honor in November 2022.

Michael was a man of unwavering determination and tireless work ethic. He was deeply loyal, a steadfast provider, and the foundation upon which his family was built. He gave of himself fully, often sacrificing his own needs to ensure those he loved were cared for and supported. Like the roots of a tall ponderosa pine, his quiet strength sustained those around him, allowing them to grow, thrive, and pursue their own paths.

He found joy in the great outdoors, in sports, and most especially in his family and friends. He embraced life with passion and purpose, living it fully and without hesitation. His legacy is one of devotion, generosity, resilience, and an enduring belief in the power of education and hard work. Michael will be profoundly missed by many, and his legacy will live on through his good works.

A celebration of life for Dr. Michael Kane will be held at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home, 1007 W South Jordan Pkwy, South Jordan, Utah 84095, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026. Family remembrances will begin at 6:45 p.m. Online condolences may be shared at www.jenkins-soffe.com.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/deseretnews/name/michael-kane-obituary?id=61154171