Michael Caldwell

Michael 'Shane' Caldwell COLUMBIA - Michael 'Shane' Caldwell, 52, departed this world on April 23, 2018 to enjoy one of the most exclusive golf courses ever created, in Heaven. Prior to his passing, Shane enjoyed the gift of life to its fullest. To many, he was a tall, quiet, private man. However, to those he knew well, they saw a loving family man, a unique and quirky sense of humor, and a passion for sports. Thrown in this mix was a healthy dose of stubbornness, which some may have viewed as a barrier but ended up being what gave him tremendous strength in the toughest battle of his life. Shane always loved sports. With the exception of curling, which most southern men cannot relate, there wasn't much he didn't enjoy watching or learning to play himself. As a teenager, he was a tennis champion in Sumter and member of the United States Tennis Association. He loved running and was also a competitive volleyball player in his 20's. Later, he and his wife and their 5lb. dog became avid sections hikers on the Appalachian Trail. However, one sport always took priority, and that was golf. Over the years, Shane had the privilege to play in some of the most recognized golf courses in the world: St Andrews in Scotland, Prestwick in Scotland, Ballybunion in Ireland, Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, TPC Sawgrass in Florida, and his favorite, Torrey Pines in San Diego. His all-time dream was to attend The Master's. His wedding was planned for the same week because they were both so special to him. Thanks to many friends, strangers and social media not only was he able to attend the event, he met his long time golf idol-Tiger Woods, which was very emotional for him but brought the biggest smile to his face. He was a 1983 graduate of Douglas County High School in Douglasville, GA. Shane received his A.S. at USC Sumter in 1985 and received a B.S. at USC Columbia in 1988. During his collegiate years and the decades since, Shane has been a loyal Pi Kappa Alpha, Xi Chapter brother and an avid gamecock fan. He has remained close to his 'brothers' and always looked forward to tailgating for USC games and boys' weekends twice a year. Shane faced several health challenges over the years. He was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2003 and a recurrence in 2005. He took the path of a very aggressive treatment and beat the disease. He took his experience to help others and became a spokesperson for the Center for Colon Cancer Research Screening Program. He was also a mentor for other cancer survivors. In 2016, Shane was diagnosed with an unrelated cancer, Lung Cancer. Before, during and after treatment Shane played golf as much as possible. He was known as "Superman" at Duke because he played golf almost every day, even after chemo and radiation. During difficult times, his first question to the doctor would be, "When can I play golf again?." This determination is what kept him upbeat and fighting the fight. He was always looking forward to the next day to possibly play, even if it was just a little. His clubs were always in the car, just in case. Recently, he realized his golfing days were over and his time was limited with his family. So, on Shane's own terms and when he was at peace, he went to Heaven and knew he would be back on the course soon enough. Shane was born in Brunswick, GA on September 16, 1965 to Andrell and Frankie Newton Caldwell. He will be forever remembered by his mother Frankie Newton Caldwell, his wife and best friend of nine years Renay Caldwell, children Rachel Ann Caldwell, Heather Ashley Miller, Derek Andrew Miller and Jordan Sierra Miller, his buddy and grandson Mason. He will be forever remembered by his extended family and dear friends. He is also survived by two brothers, four nieces, and three nephews. He is predeceased by his father Andrell Bruce Caldwell. A celebration of life service for Michael "Shane" Caldwell will be held 11:30 a.m. Saturday, April 28, 2018 at Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel. A gathering of family and friends will be held 9:30 until 11:30 a.m. for visitation, prior to the service at the funeral home. The burial will take place at Elmwood Cemetery. For their gracious support during Shane's battle, we request memorials may be made to the Center for Colon Cancer Research Screening program, 712 Main St., Suite 614, Columbia, SC or the Chris Draft Family Foundation, 165 Courtland Street, Suite 240-A, Atlanta, GA. Many thanks to Duke University Cancer Center and Agape Hospice for their tremendous care during our time of need. Please sign the online guestbook at www.dunbarfunerals.com.