Michael Jason Shipley, age 49, passed away on October 18, 2025, at his home in Tawas City, Michigan, after a year long battle with cancer. Mike was born in Reedsport, Oregon on March 21, 1976. He was employed by National Gypsum. He was also a member of and served on the board of the United Steelworkers Union.
Mike enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, music and was an avid sports fan (especially his beloved Oregon Ducks). He loved spending time with his children. He enjoyed watching movies with his son, Cole and loved watching Lauren play sports. A highlight was the annual Fourth of July water balloon fight with his kids in the yard. Mike was a man of great faith and a hard worker.
Mike is survived by his spouse, Janell Shipley, whom he married on April 30, 2007, in Lake Tahoe. Together they shared 18 years of marriage. He is also survived by his son, Cole Shipley and his daughter Lauren Shipley, parents Richard and Jerldean Shipley of Reedsport, Oregon and a sibling Kris (Candis) Shipley of Poulsbo, Washington. Mike is also survived by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Michael and Bonita Coyle, of Tawas City, Michigan, brother and sister-in-law Scott and Melinda Coyle, nephew Eric Coyle and niece Lillian Coyle of Midland, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents.
The family would like to give a special thank you to Jill, Brittney, and Jacob of Compassus Hospice, who became like family while caring for Mike. They would also like to thank National Gypsum for their unwavering support.
The family will gather with friends at Buresh Funeral Home in Tawas City, on Friday, October 24, 2025, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. with a memorial service at 4:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Scott Herbolsheimer. As per Mike’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a private burial will be held by the family.
Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider Tawas Area Schools Girls Volleyball Program or Tawas Area Schools Girls Basketball Program, because one of his greatest joys in life was watching his daughter play as a Lady Brave.