Micheal Repp, formerly of Sun-Trapp and Club Verse, dies at 51
Micheal Repp, former manager and owner of two Salt Lake City LGBTQ+ bars, died Saturday, September 6, at his home. He was 51. His husband, Riley Richter, was at his side.
Repp was best known for his work at The Sun Trapp, one of the city’s longest-running gay bars, and later as co-owner of Club Verse. The Sun Trapp, formerly the Trapp and renamed in 1991, became a mainstay of queer nightlife and a hub of community activity. In 2022, ownership disputes led to a shutdown and court battles. The following year, Repp and Richter opened Club Verse on State Street, which drew large crowds and quickly established itself as a gathering place. Programming included drag shows, holiday meals, and events of solidarity such as vigils following the Colorado Springs nightclub shooting.
Club Verse closed in November 2024, less than two years after its debut. The closure came after Richter suffered a sudden cardiac arrest in August of that year, leaving him with a serious brain injury. The couple relocated to Colorado to seek treatment at a specialized brain injury clinic, and financial challenges compounded the strain of Richter’s medical recovery.
In May 2025, Repp was diagnosed with Stage III squamous cell carcinoma. He began an aggressive treatment plan that included chemotherapy and radiation at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. The GoFundMe campaign launched by friend Emily Walker described how the couple’s savings had been depleted, possessions sold, and professional lives put on hold while they struggled to manage household costs alongside medical expenses. The still-active campaign has raised nearly $3,700 from more than 50 donors.
On the afternoon before he died, Repp posted, “After another night at Huntsman Cancer Institute here in SLC, I find myself reflecting deeply. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for my incredible partner, our amazing family, and the close friends who continue to stand by us. This journey is far from over — but I will keep moving forward, not just for myself and Riley, but as an advocate for anyone walking the difficult path of cancer. I’ve been blessed with a phenomenal care team — people who continue to open doors, offer knowledge, and make space for hope through trial treatments and relentless dedication. There’s still so much ahead, but I remain grounded in love, purpose, and a deep sense of gratitude.”
The GoFundMe campaign at gofundme.com/f/RileyMicheal will continue and will go toward funeral expenses and continued support for Richter as he navigates this next chapter.
