Michael L. Shipe, never met a stranger
Michael L. Shipe of Bridgeville, formerly of Lewes, passed away peacefully Sunday, June 27, 2021, at TidalHealth Nanticoke Hospital in Seaford. Michael was born in Wilmington, son of Robert Shipe and the late Patricia C. (Dorsey) Shipe, who passed away in 2020.
Michael attended Howard T. Ennis School in Georgetown from 1972-84; he then transferred and graduated from Benedictine School in 1990. He worked for Easter Seals since 1995 and was involved with and participated in Chimes. After graduating from Benedictine, Michael lived in the neighborhood home managed by Salvation Army in Lewes, and later Bridgeville. He had a special love for his housemates and caretakers.
Michael loved people; he was very social and never met a stranger; he would say hi to everyone he met and was very outgoing. Early in life, Michael loved participating in horseback riding with Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding. He always enjoyed outings, but most of all outings that included food experiences. His hobbies included watching NASCAR races, football games, movies, bowling and participating in Special Olympics on the swim and bocce teams. He also enjoyed getting to support Cape Henlopen High School as a Gold Child in the Blue Gold Games and attending Cape sporting events with his family and housemates. Later in life, Michael developed a love for painting which he thoroughly enjoyed.
Michael also enjoyed attending Conley’s Chapel Church special services and events with his dad and Sandy.
Michael is survived by his father, Robert Shipe and wife Sandy of Lewes; Kathy Edwards (spouse of Patricia) of Lewes; siblings, Susie Shipe of Lewes, Kristen Brooks and husband David of Middletown, and Joey Shipe of Lewes; stepsisters Gerry Edwards of Germantown, Md., Regina Williams and husband Gary of North Carolina; two nieces, Delaney Brooks of Middletown and Cheyanne Turner of Lewes; a nephew Tyler Williams of North Carolina; and many other beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A memorial service and inurnment will be held Sunday, Sept. 19, at 2 p.m., at Bethel Cemetery, Savannah Road, Lewes.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes contributions in Michael’s name to Special Olympics, 619 S. College Ave., Newark, DE 19716 or online at www.sode.org, or Salvation Army Developmental Disabilities Program, PO Box 1304, Millsboro, DE 19966.
