Michael J Shea, Ph.D.

Shea, Dr. Michael James, "Mikee" Born 8/16/45 in Topeka, KS. Died 9/29/25 after a short illness. Preceded in death by parents Michael and Margaret Mary (Meany) Shea and beloved life partner Leslie Gillette. Survived by children Shaun Faricy, Erin (Steve) Price, Zach Faricy, and grandchildren Sam (Barbara Espinosa) Parkhurst, Katie Parkhurst, Hannah Price, Danny Price.

Michael was born in Topeka, KS and still called ketchup "catsup." You can take the boy out of Topeka... He moved to various locations as a young boy and then finally settled in Minnesota, where he attended high school at Benilde. He briefly attended the College of St. Thomas and ultimately earned his Bachelor's, Master's, and doctorate degrees from the University of Minnesota.

Michael (Dr. Shea) was a practicing psychologist for over 50 years as well as a court psychologist and expert witness. He once appeared on "Nightline", being interviewed in a high-profile case. He and Leslie were in practice together for many years.

Michael never got over Leslie's death, erecting a shrine to her on his dining room table and telling anyone who would listen how much he missed her. The two of them spent many a vacation in San Francisco and Santa Fe, often being mistaken for locals. In his later days, Michael became a true local at The Hilltop in Edina and the Edina Grill by taking most of his meals there. His charm and never-ending supply of jokes endeared him to the staff.

His true passion was motorcycles, Ducati in particular, and Porsche vehicles. He owned several of each throughout his life and acquired a substantial collection of miniature models. In his spare time, he played the piano and was a prolific poet, sending copies of his poems to his ever-increasing email list. Michael also loved the Grateful Dead, going to concerts around the country with Leslie and putting "Steal your face" stickers on his cars.

We would like to thank the staff at Fairview Southdale for their care and comfort in his last days, especially nurse Julie. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Doctors Without Borders or Planned Parenthood.