Michael Nakai, a 49-year-old technology specialist and registered member of the Navajo Nation, died on Oct. 19, 2026, according to obituary notices from Mitchell Funeral Home and Echovita. Nakai, who spent nearly three decades adapting technology for students with disabilities, was a resident of Price, Utah.
Family and Heritage
Born on March 29, 1977, in Gallup, New Mexico, Nakai was the oldest of four children born to Ruby and Nelson Nakai. He was a member of the Bit’ahnii (Folded arms) clan, born for Kiyaa'áanii (Towering House People), with his Nali being Áshįįhí (Salt Clan) and his cheii being Naakai Dinéʼé (Mexican People clan).
A Lifelong Passion for Technology
Nakai was known for a lifelong fascination with technology and gadgets. He frequently used the phrase "releasing the magic smoke" to describe a device that had ceased to function. His early interest in mechanics included a childhood incident where he took apart a large Curtis Mathis console television, which resulted in a significant repair bill.
Professional Career and Education
Nakai's professional career was defined by his commitment to helping others through technology. He began his career in the Carbon School District and later attended the College of Eastern Utah, now known as Utah State University Eastern, where he earned an Associate of Science degree. He continued his education at Weber State University, where he earned a Bachelor's degree and intended to pursue a Master's degree.
Service to Students with Disabilities
His career included roles as a Disability Resource Technician at the College of Eastern Utah and internships at Kirkland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Hill Air Force Base in Ogden, Utah. During his early years at Weber State University, he worked for the Iomega Corporation in software quality assurance, debugging code before the release of new products. Nakai spent 28 years working in the Students with Disabilities Department at Weber State University as an Adaptive Technologist Specialist, using his expertise to adapt everyday technology for students in higher education.
Personal Interests and Character
Beyond his professional life, Nakai was described as a quiet and private individual who was funny, loyal, giving, kind, observant, and quick-witted. He possessed a keen eye for detail, once noticing an upside-down and backward letter 'O' on a movie theater marquee. His interests included traveling, photography, and gaming, both online and tabletop. He was also a dedicated attendee of a weekly group and was a fan of Disney’s The Lion King, having attended the traveling Broadway performance at the Capitol Theater.
Survivors and Services
Nakai is survived by his parents, Ruby and Nelson Nakai; his sister, Melissa (Michael) Weaver, and her daughters, Cassandra and Mary Weaver; and his brothers, Curtis Nakai and Ryan Nakai, along with a large extended family, friends, and colleagues.
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral services for Nakai are scheduled for Monday, Oct. 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Mitchell Funeral Home, located at 233 East Main St. in Price, Utah. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. prior to the service. Interment will follow at the Cliffview Cemetery, located at 1850 East 800 North in Price, with a brief graveside prayer.
