Michael Shames Obituary

Michael Shames, aged 67, passed away peacefully at the Maltz Hospice on October 5, 2023 following a stroke. Michael was born in White Plains, New York to the late William and Loretta Shames, graduating from White Plains High School. Family was the center of Michael's life, and in 1981 he married Katie Wasserstrom. He was a proud father to their son Jonathan, born in 1989. An avid and adventurous skier, Michael enjoyed his college years at the University of Vermont, studying business. Before moving to Cleveland in 1996, Michael and Katie lived in Manhattan and Scarsdale, New York. Professionally, Michael was a successful financial advisor having worked at McDonald Investments, UBS, and Wells Fargo, most recently as a First Vice President. He was a Life Trustee of Menorah Park in Beachwood, Ohio. Michael was a graduate of the inaugural Wexner Heritage Class in New York and founded the Young Leadership program in Westchester for the Jewish Community Federation in NY. In addition to numerous volunteer roles, Michael was an enthusiastic gardener and loved playing golf. His quiet demeanor belied a droll wit. More than anything, Michael cherished his family: wife of 42 years, Katie, son Jonathan and daughter in law Talia, his sister and brother in law, Amy and John Cummings, nephew Jack, late brother in law, David Wasserstrom, in laws Peggy and Phil Wasserstrom, sister and brother in law Beth and Chip Cohen and niece Cathy. The funeral ceremony will be graveside at Lakeview Cemetery on Sunday, October 8 at 12:30 pm. (Enter Mayfield Rd. gate). Shiva will follow the service on Sunday UNTIL 6PM. and continue on Monday from 3-6 at 32750 Meadowlark Way, Pepper Pike. Contributions in Michael's memory may be made to The Cleveland Orchestra, or National Wildlife Foundation. Friends who are unable to attend the service may view it beginning Monday, October 9 by going to YouTube, under search enter: Michael Shames Funeral Service.