Michelle Dawn Bustillos, 44, passed away on July 16, 2025, at the University of Utah Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. Born on November 3, 1980, in Logan, Utah, she was the daughter of Joni Lynn Nelson Carlsen and Paul Kent Carlsen.
Michelle spent her early years in Logan, where she graduated from Logan High School in 1999. She continued her education at Southern Utah University, Snow College, and Utah Valley University
Michelle cherished her role as a mother. Her greatest joy was spending time with her son, Erik. Whether playing catch or dodge ball, visiting the park, or swimming together, every moment with Erik was a highlight of her day. Their bond was filled with love, laughter, and a shared sense of humor that Michelle lovingly passed on to him.
Michelle had a deep love for music and often found peace in playing her guitar and singing. She enjoyed exercising and rarely missed a workout. Her creativity extended to jewelry making and writing, and she had a kind, compassionate heart—especially when it came to caring for stray animals.
She worked at Apple Tree Assisted Living in Layton, where she took pride in supporting the residents and bringing warmth to their lives with kind words and thoughtful gestures.
Michelle is survived by her cherished son, Erik Bustillos, age 9; her mother, Joni Pratt; stepfather, Bob Pratt; brother, Brian Carlsen; and sister, Heather Carlsen. She was preceded in death by her grandparents: Elden Kent and Jeannine Taylor Nelson, and Lowell and Betty Carlsen.
A viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 23, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Walker Funeral Home, 587 South 100 West, Payson, Utah. A graveside service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the Santaquin Cemetery, 100 East 300 South, Santaquin, Utah.
Michelle’s loving spirit and sense of humor will always be remembered.
1 Condolence for Michelle Dawn Bustillos
Condolence(1)
Robert Dunn says
February 20, 2026 at 6:45 amSorry for your loss may your family grow closer in this difficult time