Michael Charles Mahutga, age 59, of Custer, SD, passed away March 17, 2012, at Wind Cave National Park.

Michael was born August 23, 1952, in Pierre, SD, to Victor and Donna (Flom) Mahutga. He served in the US Navy during the Vietnam Era. He received his B. S. degree in Electrical Engineering from South Dakota School of Mines, and worked as an electrical engineer for Pacific Gas & Electric, the State of South Dakota and Black Hills Power & Electric. He retired at the age of 49 and was an entrepreneur until his death.

Mike was a lifetime member of the Custer VFW. He was an intelligent, hardworking man, he was fun loving, outgoing and loved to be with friends and family. He was just beginning a new stage in life and was planning to sail in Florida and beyond.

Mike loved his family dearly, along with his friends. There are countless people in this world who loved him.

Survivors include his son, Matthew (Sharon) Mahutga of Pomona, CA; daughters, Megan Mullin of Rapid City, SD; Karen (John) Buxcel of Rapid City; Sherry Brodrick of Sacramento, CA; father, Victor Mahutga of Ft. Pierre, SD; mother, Donna Mahutga of Howard, SD; brothers, Rick Mahutga of SD; Jim Poulson of SD; sister, Becky Lawhon of NV; five grandchildren, Saylor Buxcel; Stone Buxcel; Sage Buxcel; Zuri Buxcel and Maksim Mullin.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Royal Mullin.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, March 23, 2012 at the First Baptist Church in Custer with Pastor Bill Savery officiating. Military Honors will be provided by the Custer VFW Post 3442 Veterans Honor Guard.

A wake service will be held at the Custer VFW immediately following the memorial service.

A memorial has been established in Michael's name to benefit the Custer VFW Veterans Honor Guard.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley's Chapel of the Hills in Custer. Written condolences may be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.