Michael Chimenti

Mike Chimenti, 72, of Thermopolis Wyoming, officially retired from life on January 22, 2026.

Mike was born on December 12, 1953 to Peter and Beth (Carson) Chimenti in Riverton Wyoming.  He grew up in Dubois, causing mischief which would give him insight for his future career.

Following high school graduation in 1972, he went to work in the timber, despite claiming to be allergic to pine trees.  He would continue to use this excuse to never fulfill his daughters’ dreams of having a REAL Christmas tree. 

After the First National Bank burned down in Thermopolis in 1973, he accepted a job as a security guard for the bank, sparking his love of service for his community.

He then worked for the Police department, transitioned to the Sheriff’s department, and then back to the Police department where he wore many hats and badges including DARE officer, school resource officer, founding officer and counselor of Camp Postcard, patrolman, sergeant, and Chief of Police. 

At the beginning of his career, working full time, he was a pioneer in distance education, earning his associates degree in Criminal Justice from Central Wyoming College without ever attending a class on campus. 

As current mayor, Adam Estenson wrote, “Mike often said that Thermopolis had given so much to him, he wanted to give back to the community in every way he could.”  He did this by serving as a volunteer EMT, helping establish the mental health center, and sitting on numerous other boards and committees.  He was always up for promoting and supporting the community.  He was the first to retire from the police department after serving for 43 years.  After retirement he continued his service to Thermopolis, serving one term as mayor. 

He was a Past Master of Malta Lodge 17.  He also held multiple offices including treasurer and Grand High Priest for the Royal Arch Masons.

In 1976, Mike married Janet (Tomes) Chimenti and they shared forty nine blissss(tering)ful years.  He is survived by his daughters Bria (Matt)Eisen of Moorhead Minnesota and Carmalen (Bryan) Grutsch of Billings Montana, grandkids Jackson Eisen and Logan and Macy Grutsch, brothers Peter (Sheryl) Chimenti and Jerry Burmiester, sister in law Barb (John) Vietti, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as many others he considered family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Dava Day and Patty Buoy.

He was strong in his faith, family, fishing, and solving the world’s problems with his friends at coffee.

His family would like to thank their family and friends, Stillwater Hospice, and the Town of Thermopolis for their unwavering support.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the T-Town Cancer Crusaders, Stillwater Hospice, or the Community Federated Church.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael Chimenti, please visit our floral store.