Michael Gene Shelley's Obituary
Michael Gene Shelley, age 77 of Howard, KS, passed away April 10, 2023 at his home, surrounded by family.
Michael was born January 8, 1946 in Wichita, KS to Merle and Voney (Denison) Shelley. He grew up alongside 2 sisters, his early years in Wichita, then the family moved to Park City when Michael was an early teenager. After graduating high school, Michael went on to further his education for a year at college before going to work for Beechcraft in Wichita. He dedicated 37 years to Raytheon, retiring as Order Control. He also served his country in the Army Reserves for a number of years.
On October 1, 1981, Michael married Janice Hedberg. They joined their 2 families together, making a family of 7. They have spent the last 41 years raising their children together and enjoying life. In the early 1990’s, they moved to the farm north of Howard they purchased from the Jacksons. Michael enjoyed being on the farm raising Beefalo. He was a true farmer, as he could fix anything with duct tape and silicone.
Michael was loving husband, dad and grandpa. If you knew him, you knew him, and he was an open book about anything and everything.
He is survived by his wife Jan of the home.
Children:
Alice Kalene (Eugene) Brown
Samuel Martin (Doyce) Redden
Tonya Pree Shelley
James Chance (Stephanie) Taylor III
Tammy Lynn (Steven) Boettjer
Grandchildren:
Rochelle Messick, Travis Redden, Joey Redden, Jessica Hicks, Jolene Smith, Heather Knight, Bryce Hyde, Britani Wilson, Haleigh Fryman, Brandy Venskus, Brittany Brown, and Derrick Brown
30 Great-grandchildren
Sister, Cheryl Berry
He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Debbie Macy
Cremation has been requested. The family will hold a private inurnment service.
Memorial contributions can be made in honor of Michael to the American Cancer Society and can be mailed to or left with the funeral home.
Services entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, PO Box 1233, Howard, KS 6734
What’s your fondest memory of Michael?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michael?
Share a story where Michael's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michael you’ll never forget.
How did Michael make you smile?

