Michael Puriri Obituary, Death – Michael Wayne Puriri, born on September 22, 1962, in Hamilton, New Zealand, to Rakaipaka Puriri II and Margie Ahmu Puriri, lived a life filled with diverse experiences and profound connections. As the third son of Ra and Margie and the fourth of six children, Michael spent his early years in New Zealand before his family relocated to Cerritos, California, when he was nine. Later, they moved to Alpine, Utah, a place that many of the Puriri family still considers home.
After graduating from American Fork High School, Michael embarked on a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Pennsylvania Philadelphia Mission. Following his mission, he ventured into the field of plumbing, following in his father’s footsteps. In his twenties, Michael, along with his older brother Colin, established their plumbing business, Island Plumbing, serving areas in Utah, Nevada, and California.
Rugby held a special place in Michael’s heart, having been a star player in New Zealand before his move to the United States. Despite excelling in other sports like football and track, rugby remained his first love. Alongside his brothers and father, Michael played a pivotal role in founding the United Men’s Rugby Club in Utah County. In 1998, the Puriri brothers initiated the Lone Peak High School Rugby Club, later renamed the United Rugby Club.
Michael’s love for rugby extended beyond his personal endeavors. In 2006, he and his wife, Kristina, relocated to Santa Clara, Utah, where he co-founded the Snow Canyon rugby club with fellow enthusiast Jay Day. The club achieved success in various tournaments and state championships, but Michael’s greatest source of pride was the positive impact he had on the young men he coached. Hundreds of individuals passed through the program, and Michael prioritized ensuring they had a positive and enriching experience year after year.
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