Michele Shimmel

1956 - 2017

Michele Shimmel, age 60, who graced this world with light, passed away on August 23, 2017. Born Michele Knafou, on December 4, 1956, she grew up in Jamaica Plain, MA, and Pearl River, NY, then moved to Palm Coast, FL in 1993. After attending Nanuet High School, she received a bachelor's degree at St. Thomas Aquinas College, and a master's in elementary education from Long Island University. Years later, she was certified as a medical assistant, a profession in which she worked until her death. With a radiant smile and ready laugh, truly genuine and generous, she loved dancing, healthful food, baking, making jewelry, and above all, her family. Michele is predeceased by her beloved parents, Mary (Nutley) and Yves Knafou. The very core of her family, she is survived by her partner in marriage Martin Shimmel, children Ilana and Nathaniel Shimmel, siblings Greg Knafou, Yvette Rhodus, and Geoff Knafou, as well as many dear friends. Her memorial services will be private.