Michael Douglas Bentley 1949 ~ 2008 Michael D. Bentley died July 29, 2008 following cardiac arrest. Born Oct. 1, 1949 in Salt Lake City to Roy and Lillian Bentley. Following his father's death in an accident when Mike was five years old, his mother married Silvin Jessop who loved him, his sister and two brothers as his own. A half-brother soon completed the newly formed family. Mike served as a police officer for six and a half years on the Salt Lake City Police Department where he formed lasting friendships with fellow officers, particularly as a member of the motorcycle squad. Shaking hands with former U.S. Vice President Walter Mondale with a rain-soaked leather glove was a memorable - if not embarrassing -experience. After completing Bachelors of Science degrees in accounting and business administration from Westminster College, Mike joined the Salt Lake County Treasurer's office in 1981. Committed to exemplary public service, he earned respect as a capable and dedicated manager, retiring in 2007 as accounting director. Mike was uncommonly generous with his time. He willingly helped family, friends and neighbors with all manner of tasks, ranging from the complex to mundane. He had a remarkable ability to "figure things out." He never took short cuts. Everything he did was done to perfection. Mike was a dog lover, a gentleman farmer and a consummate practical joker. Most of all he was a man of compassion and integrity, endowed with a curious mind and extraordinary patience. He loved and adored his sons, Ian and Austin, beyond measure. He and his beloved wife, Carol, and best friends Don, Rosie I and Rosie II, shared many years of happiness exploring the country by motor home and motorcycle, the canyons of Lake Powell by boat and red rock canyons by jeep. Any place he was became his favorite place. We trust he is traveling in a vintage truck or on a tractor, fulfilling his other passions. Mike gave us many cherished memories and unconditional love. He was our gentle caretaker and asked little in return. He rarely said the words, but we knew we were loved. Mike leaves behind his adoring wife and sons, and daughter-in-law (Bobbie Jo), former wife (Alene), step-son (Shawn), six grandchildren, his sister (Sandra), brothers (Larry and Clyde), and innumerable friends. Preceded in death by his parents, step-father, and brother (Danny). The family will receive friends at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 S. Highland Dr., from 2:00-3:00 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 3, 2008. Mike would want his friends and family to honor his memory by adopting a stray pet or making a contribution to an animal shelter.