Michael John “Mike” Shelly, 53, passed away on January 23, 2025, due to complications from recent health issues. Born on May 5, 1971, in Lima, Ohio, he was adopted as a young child by Ralph and Helen Shelly, who nurtured him with love and devotion in Bluffton, Ohio. Mike later reconnected with his birth mother, Karen (Henderson) McClendon, a reunion that was meaningful for them both.

A graduate of Bluffton High School, Class of 1990, Mike excelled in basketball and earned All-NWC honors during his senior season. He attended Hesston College in Kansas from 1990 to 1992, eventually making Kansas his home for over three decades, most recently residing in Wichita. Known as a hard worker, Mike held multiple jobs throughout his life—most notably spending over 15 years as a delivery driver for Waxie Sanitary Supply. Outside of work, he found joy in woodworking, fashioning furniture and cabinetry from reclaimed materials. Mike was a life-long University of Michigan fan.

Mike was proud of his nephews, nieces and great niece—Joshua, Nathan, Zachary, Abigail, Allison and Saniia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Helen Shelly, and is survived by his birth mother, Karen (Houston) McClendon, his brothers and sister-in laws, Ralph (Renee) Shelly and Paul (Lisa) Shelly, along with their children. 

A memorial service will be held later this spring in Bluffton, Ohio, where loved ones will gather to celebrate Mike’s life. His smile and easy-going personality will be missed by those who loved him.