Michael T. Mahoney

Michael Thane Mahoney, 81, of Casper, Wyoming, passed away on April 20th, 2026 at his home surrounded by family.

Mike was born in Hulett, WY on September 29th, 1944 to John Seeley Mahoney and Virginia “Neil” Willson at the family ranch. He grew up in Hulett where he starred in basketball and football before attending Northern State University on a football scholarship. He met his first wife, Julie Claymore, in college and had a son, Neil. They later divorced and in 1968, after earning his Bachelor of Science in teaching English, quickly decided that teaching was not for him. Looking for a change, he moved to Gillette Wyoming, worked in the oil field and met his soulmate, Peggy Hladky. The pair settled in Casper to raise their two children, Michael and Muffy. He spent most of his career working at High Country Fabrication as a quality control manager.

When at home, Mike was an avid reader and loved playing cribbage and pitch, but his favorite pastime was supporting his grandchildren in their activities where he mentored them. His favorite activities involved spending time outdoors. Mike was fortunate to have many great friends throughout his life. Whether boating, fishing, hunting, golfing, or rock hunting, Mike loved nothing better than being outdoors with his friends and family.

Mike was described as a gentle giant, affectionately called Big Mike. He used his wit, knowledge and his stubbornness to propel himself in all he did. He was known as a “jack of all trades”. He could remodel just about anything and was willing to help build structures for anyone who asked. He was a no nonsense man with a BIG HEART. Something his grandkids and his dog, Oreo, knew well.

Mike was a loving and caring husband, father, and grandfather. His family cherished the time they got to spend with him and will miss him dearly.

Mike is survived by his wife of 54 years, Peggy, his son Michael (Montra) of Gillette WY, and daughter Melisa “Muffy” (Jason) Best of Casper WY. and his grandchildren Jasmin, Jaden, Jordan and Joslyn. He is also survived by his siblings Joan (Gary) Wilkinson of Broken Arrow OK, Vonn (Denise) Mahoney of Tucson AZ, Sherry (Fran) Walter of Buffalo WY, Nena (Paul) Handlin of Tucson AZ, Marla Waugh of Hulett WY, Todd (Shiela) Mahoney of Tucson AZ, J.D. (Debbie) Perrussell of Tucson AZ, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, eldest son, Neil, and eldest sister LaNette.

Funeral service will be held at Bustard and Jacoby Funeral Home at 600 CY Ave. in Casper on Thursday, April 30th at 10:00 am with a reception following the service.