Legends: Michael Voigt

It’s with great sadness that we learned of the passing of beloved friend and colleague, Michael Voigt. It was reported that he passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones on Saturday, March 24 in Corona, CA. Michael is survived by his wife, Maggie Reese Voigt and his daughters.

A true innovator and icon, Michael has been one of the top action shooters in the world for the past 30 years. Michael’s list of titles is too long to list, but most impressive were his accomplishments as a National and World Champion in multiple shooting disciplines.

Michael has been featured on 3-Gun Nation, NBC Sports, Versus, Pursuit, Sportsman’s and Outdoor Channel. He was one of the original Team Safariland competitive shooters and served on the team for 25 years along with Team Surefire, working as key engineer for the suppressor program. For years, he was a competitor at the NRA Bianchi Cup Action Pistol Championship.

Michael was president of the United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) from 2000 to 2012. After 12 years at the helm of USPSA, he returned to devoting his time and talents to advancing the firearms industry—training elite military and law enforcement forces around the world. Michael has been a friend and mentor for many, and has always been there to coach or help anyone along the way. He will be truly missed.

About Michael, Chad Adams of 3-Gun Nation said:

“[Mike Voigt dominated] in the world of 3-Gun for the better part of three decades. It was in 3-Gun where some of Voigt’s innovative gear choices, such as secondary optics, became groundbreaking, while his shooting performances proved legendary. Voigt’s frequent battles with Jerry Miculek in the Open/Unlimited divisions at 3-Gun matches have given competition shooting some of the greatest displays of action shooting, regardless of discipline.”

Mourners took to social media to express their grief.

Sorry to hear Michael Voigt has lost his battle with cancer. Been shooting with Mike since the mid-1980s. Always a cool and calm professional on the range. History would say he truly was a game changer to the shooting industry in so many ways … he will be missed.

RIP Mr. Michael Voigt!! My sincerest condolences to the shooting world and the Voigt family. Blessings my friend. We honor you.

As some of you may know, we lost one of the best people in our industry and sport. Mike was one of my best friends, team members, mentors, coaches and fellow competitors the past 25 years. I cannot tell you how much time we have spent on the range and just hanging out. His life became full when he met and married Maggie Reese Voigt. Maggie has been there by his side the entire time and we cannot thank her enough. Please join us if you can Saturday, April 14 and pass the word, see details below. We will miss you Mike and thank you all the great memories.

A sad day for losing a great asset of the American marksmanship. RIP Michael Voigt.

Services and Interment is scheduled for Saturday, April 14 at 3:00 p.m. at Rose Hills Memorial Park, 3888 Workman Mill Road, Whittier, CA 90601. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Michael’s extraordinary life.

Instead of flowers, the family is asking people to give donations to the USPSA Junior Program. Go to: uspsa.org/announcement/576

Lead photo courtesy of Hornady