D. Michael Pauling, beloved father, brother, and attorney, passed away on September 16, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on August 15, 1950, in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, Mike lived a life that combined sharp intellect with an unmatched sense of humor, deep devotion to his family, and an unwavering love for the wide-open spaces of Wyoming. In many ways, his move to Wyoming was the realization of a childhood dream — he grew up idolizing cowboys and found his own version of the Wild West in the place he would come to love most.
An attorney through and through, Mike worked for the Wyoming Attorney General’s Office and later as a clerk for Justice Michael Davis at the Wyoming Supreme Court. He was deeply proud of his work. For him, the law was not just a profession but a passion — one that gave him purpose and endless fodder for the intellectual conversations he so loved.
Outside the courtroom, Mike was happiest with a fly rod in hand, waist-deep in a cold Wyoming stream. An avid fly fisherman, he found joy and peace on the water, often accompanied by sarcasm, wit, and the occasional tall tale. He was equally passionate about art, baking, his motorcycle, philosophy, politics, an obscure reference, and conversation, always quick to engage, to debate, and — with a twinkle in his eye — to push just the right buttons.
Mike loved many things, but nothing ever came before his children: daughters Meggin Schiffner and Chandler Pauling, and stepsons Matthew Olsen and Jacob Olsen. He adored them beyond words, and they were the true pride of his life. He is also survived by his brother, Kevin Pauling, and sister, Vicki Smith.
Mike’s memory will live on in every cast line, every spirited debate, and every sarcastic remark shared among those who loved him. In honor of his love for Wyoming’s wild rivers, donations may be made to Trout Unlimited—check donations may be directed with “Wyoming” in the memo line and addressed to Trout Unlimited, Inc., 1700 N Moore St, Suite 2005, Arlington, VA 22209-2793, or online donations can be sent via http://tu.org/DonateWyoming.
A memorial service will be held in Washington Park in Laramie on October 5 at noon. Friends and family are invited to come, share stories, and celebrate a life well lived — one full of passion, wit, and love.
8 Comments To "D. Michael Pauling"
#1 Comment By Richard N Campbell On September 24, 2025 @ 2:08 pm
I’m really sorry to learn of Mike’s death; he was one of my favorite hunting buddies and we spent a lot of time together hunting elk on the Greys River; he was an excellent horseman; on one of our hunts his horse spooked and took to bucking and kicking across a big meadow on Crow Creek up Greys River; Mike stayed in the saddle for a lot more than eight seconds (a qualified ride) and I told him he looked like a professional rider; I think that ride fulfilled his dream of being a true cowboy; and in my opinion he was. Good to have known you my friend; you truly are a man of many gifts and talents and I will miss you.
Dick
#2 Comment By Paul Rehurek On September 25, 2025 @ 10:41 am
It is with great sadness that I read this morning of Mike’s passing. Mike and I worked together as attorneys in the criminal division of the Wyoming Attorney General’s Office. Mike was an excellent appellate lawyer, highly respected by both judges and other attorneys.
He was fun to work with and had a great sense of humor. We are going to miss you, old buddy. Paul Rehurek
#3 Comment By Paul Rehurek On September 25, 2025 @ 11:56 am
Mikey and I were attorneys working together in the Wyoming Attorney General’s Office, Criminal Division. He had the highest respect from district judges and Justices of the Wyoming Supreme Court, where he worked for several years before joining the A.G. ‘s Office. You will never find a better friend or nicer human being than Mikey. Tight lines and cool breezes, ole buddy.
#4 Comment By Richard Scheflen On September 26, 2025 @ 7:26 pm
Mike and I were college roommates for two years at Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA. We were close friends and spent many a night talking into the wee hours about life. Mike was a deep thinker and spent much more time than I did contemplating issues that were beyond me. As often happens, we lost touch after college but I never stopped thinking about our discussions late into the evening. He was a unique person. I send my condolences to his family.
#5 Comment By Teri Rininger On September 27, 2025 @ 8:25 pm
Mike was my Step Father. He was really the best role model I ever had. I shall always remember Saturday nights. We sat side by side watching SNL, and The Midnight Special. He had a love for music like no one else! What we need now, Mike, is more cow bell.
#6 Comment By Katherine Klein On September 29, 2025 @ 10:46 am
I met Mike in 1972 at Shakeys Pizza . I was a cocktail waitress and he was the bartender. On Friday nights at 5 happy hour people from all walks of life came to see and say hi to Mike. Mike was witty, very humorous and fastest bartender I ever saw. When I locked the door at 2 am I would came back to a big mug of ice cold red beer and we would listen to good music and clean the bar. Later he became part of my family and we all loved him. Mike was always upbeat, funny and smart!! He was caring and one hell of a cook. He always loved my kids and was always so good to my family. Mike, I have nothing but fond memories of you and you’ll always have a place in my heart! RIP my friend.
#7 Comment By Tamara K pauling On October 4, 2025 @ 9:08 am
I pray condolences and blessings over Mikes family that he loved so dearly! Also over my daughter Meggin Pauling who loved her father! Mike will be missed by many and sorry he passed at such a young age. Mike loved Wyoming and remember once, driving to Laramie on the old road, he asked me to stop, so he could get out and let the wind blow through his teeth! He was funny and witty and we enjoyed him for 12 years. RIP Michael! You’ll be missed! Tamara K Pauling
#8 Comment By Daurean Sloan On October 5, 2025 @ 11:47 am
Mike, Suzan and I went to law school together. Mike was unflappable and had such an inner peace about him. While I might be finding grad school stressful, Mike had a calming perspective that immediately helped in seeing things in a less stressful manner. I have such wonderful and fond memories of the 3 of us in school, watching Jake and Matt as kids and later, getting to know Chandler. My heart is with Suzan, Jake, Matt, Chandler and all of Mike’s family and friends. Mike touched everyone in such a positive way; he will be sorely missed.