Shantz

Michael James Shantz, of Zelienople, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 30, 2022. Mike left this world too soon at age 56.

He is survived by his parents, Jim and Cathy Shantz, also of Zelienople; his siblings, David Shantz of Export, Pa., Gretchen Shantz of Seattle, Wash., and Karen Puente of Houston, Texas, along with their spouses and his five nieces and nephews, whom he dearly loved.

For 30-plus years, Mike toiled in the sun, rain and snow to operate his landscaping business. He employed many and was known for his meticulous lawn care.

Mike was fueled by rock ‘n' roll and sweet tea! He religiously supported the local music scene by making an effort to attend every show. At these shows, he would collect guitar picks and drumsticks, then he would often show his appreciation for the rocking riffs by grilling food for the band.

Mike's passion for rock translated into his artwork. He spent countless hours collecting, sorting and arranging river rocks and fossils to create a one-of-a-kind “Rockin’ Rock Garden,” located in his backyard. It featured hundreds of unique “rock” guitars and cairns — and those guitar picks and sticks from the shows turned into excellent, geometric artwork.

Another passion of Mike's was the great outdoors, and his favorite way to experience it was from the seat of a bike. He could often be seen riding the trails in Pittsburgh or across the state. He always kept track of his mileage every year, and proudly displayed it on his Christmas card. His accumulated miles as stated on his 2021 Christmas card was 23,102.

Mike had a tender heart that could be hidden at times by a rough exterior, but he was devoted to feeding the birds and squirrels in his backyard, as well as any cat that wandered close by. He will be especially missed by his beloved cat, Yoda.

SHANTZ — Services for Michael James Shantz, who died Sunday, Jan. 30, 2022, were held privately by BOYLAN FUNERAL HOME, 324 E. Grandview Ave., Zelienople.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.boylanfuneralservices.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.