Michael Gary Shaum

Michael Gary Shaum, a cherished husband, father, brother, son, and friend, passed away on March 14, 2026, at the age of 55. Born on November 23, 1970, in Elkhart, Indiana, he was the beloved son of Gary and Sheila Shaum, who survive him. Michael’s life was defined by kindness, laughter, and a deep love for his family. After spending his early adult years at home with his children, he worked at Shaum Electric in various roles, including running the motor shop and serving as purchasing manager, before turning toward creative pursuits with his wife.

He married Sandra Abner on February 20, 2026, in South Bend, Indiana, after a year-and-a-half engagement. In the nearly three years they shared, they were inseparable. In recent years, Michael dreamed of moving out West, starting a business, and teaching his wife and daughter the craft of woodworking.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra Shaum; his parents, Gary and Sheila Shaum; his sister, Shel Shaum; the mother of his children, Angie Emmons (Eric Emmons); his children, Cassidy Shaum (Dane Scheffler), Macalister Shaum (Rijan Shaum), Miranda Shaum, Kev Shaum (Callie Taylor-Shaum), Bob Shaum, Lilliana Abner, and David Harp (Nyssa Cerny); his grandchildren, Nalani Garcia-Taylor, Mateo Garcia-Taylor, Audrey Tipton, Carter Shaum, and Marcello Shaum; his uncle and aunt, Lewy and Karen Shaum; and his dog, George Jr. He is also survived by many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Lowell Shaum, Lucille Shaum Hartman, Clint Hartman, Harold Lovejoy, and Donnabell Kincaid, and by his cousin, Ernest Shaum.

Michael was a completely unique soul whose kindness, immense love for his family, warm hugs, and thunderous laugh left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He befriended those who had no one and always rooted for the underdog. He found joy in video games, particularly playing Fallout 76 with his wife, in the music of Metallica, in animals, and in his unwavering faith. His family will carry him in their hearts through the stories they share, the laughter they echo, and the love they spread in his honor.