Michael Shane DePonte

Michael Shane DePonte passed away on January 9, 2026, after a long and complex illness, from complications of Fabry's disease. He fought bravely and with great determination to remain with his family for as long as he could, and he did so knowing how deeply he was loved.

Michael was a deeply caring person whose generosity showed up quietly and consistently in everyday life. He was known for paying for the person behind him in a drive-through, helping others without expectation, and giving generously to charities and causes that mattered to him. He cared deeply for everyone in his life, especially those in need, and lived with an open heart.

He was very proud of his career in technology, working for companies such as Motorola, Hewlett-Packard, and NetApp. As a Proposal Manager, Michael took great pride in his work and in the many successful bid wins he helped lead. He was recognized throughout his career for going above and beyond, and for his commitment, reliability, and excellence.

Michael earned a degree from ITT Technical Institute, a Bachelor's degree in Technology Management from California State University San Marcos, and a Master's degree in Technology Management from the University of Phoenix. During his time at California State University San Marcos, he was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, where he formed lasting friendships and valued the sense of brotherhood and community. He also served as a certified adjunct professor with the University of Phoenix for approximately ten years, teaching technology and business management courses, a role he found deeply meaningful.

From a young age, Michael showed exceptional drive and talent. He was an Eagle Scout and earned state-level awards in architecture during high school. These early accomplishments reflected the discipline, curiosity, and work ethic that stayed with him throughout his life.

Michael was a man of faith and had a strong personal relationship with the Lord. He believed deeply in the guidance of the Holy Spirit and drew strength from his faith throughout his life.

He loved being active with friends and enjoyed shared experiences, laughter, and time together. Michael also had a deep love of the water, whether living near it or being in it. From playing water polo in high school to water skiing, snorkeling, swimming, and spending time near lakes and oceans, water was always where he felt most himself.

With a lifelong appreciation for architecture and design, Michael took great pride in the two homes he and Cheryl shared. He was especially house-proud of their Aberdeen Gaslight Village home, a Craftsman-style Cape Cod, and the Albury Park Manor home, a Queen Anne Victorian reproduction. He lovingly selected finishes, flooring, paint, and furnishings, and found deep joy in making each home beautiful and welcoming.

Michael was a devoted animal lover and shared his life with seventeen pets over the years, each of whom he treated as family. He also loved gardening, spending time outdoors, and feeding and observing the local birds. He saw himself as a steward of all living things on his land and took that responsibility to heart.

He had a lifelong love of cars, from his fully restored Mustang in his younger years to his final car, the Raptor R. He also loved food, movies, and the simple pleasures of enjoying life.

Above all, Michael was a devoted husband and father. He and Cheryl were married for 28 years and together for 32 years, having first met as teenagers and remained close friends before building a life together. He was immensely proud of his children, Katelyn (25), Cameron (22), and Savannah (21). They are the very best of him, and his love, values, and presence live on through them.

Michael would want to be remembered as someone who laughed easily, enjoyed life, cared deeply for others, and loved his family and pets wholeheartedly. We hope he is enjoying a Tommy Burger in heaven with his brother.

A Viking-style witness cremation was held in accordance with Michael's wishes. A small church devotional focused on faith, remembrance, and comfort will be held for immediate family and those who supported Michael and his family during his illness. Details will be shared directly.

In his will, Michael expressed that he hoped those who loved him would celebrate his life in whatever way felt meaningful to them, wherever they are. He especially loved dinners, gatherings, and simple gestures of remembrance, whether visiting favorite restaurants, sharing stories, or honoring memories in personal and sincere ways. He asked that these moments be shared with his wife and children through photos and notes, something that has already brought them great comfort.

The family has been deeply touched by the flowers, cards, meals, and kindness they have received, all of which have been immensely comforting and are gratefully welcomed. For those who wish, donations in Michael's memory may also be made to organizations dedicated to Fabry disease research and awareness, a cause that was deeply important to him and clearly expressed in his will.

Suggested organizations include:

The Fabry Support and Information Group (FSIG)
The National Fabry Disease Foundation (NFDF)
Fabry International Network (FIN)

Those who wish are also welcome to share photos, memories, or special thoughts in the comments below.