Michael Lewis Obituary

Michael "Junkman" Shane Lewis was born June 13, 1964, in Newton, IA and took his last breath on March 16, 2025, with his family at his side. He is the son of Keith Lewis and Maureen Hagele. Michael attended the Monroe Schools until the 10th grade in Monroe, IA. He married Cheryl Jean Elam Lewis on August 15, 1987, and she preceded him in death on July 5, 2013.
Michael was self-employed as a scrap metal processor and retired due to health issues in 2013. He was diagnosed with lung cancer in November 2023 when his doctor advised he had six months to a year of life to remain. He chose not to take any life-lengthening treatments as he felt the final result would be the same and he often stated; "I want to go be with my wife."
Michael enjoyed camping, putting puzzles together, scratching lottery tickets, thrifting, attending garage sales and was a backyard mechanic who liked to tinker with cars and trucks.
Michael is survived by his sons, Curtis and Tyler of Grinnell, IA; his mother, Maureen Hagele of Newton, IA; his sister, Dawn Ulrey of Monroe, IA; nieces and nephew, Jesi (Elliott) Moore of Lincoln, NE and her sons, Ryan, Ahren, and Zach (Amber) Schneider, Joni Ulrey of Monroe, IA and her sons, Izaiah Ulrey and Zander Smith and Benjamin (Christina) Ulrey, of Des Moines, IA; his paternal aunt and uncle, Linda and Bill Bennett, Sr. of Monroe, IA; his cousins, Bill (Vicky) Bennett, Jr. of Newton, IA and their sons, Chris and Alex; his maternal aunt and uncle, Connie and Herman Cupples of Newton, IA; his cousins, Rob Cupples and Clint Cupples, along with his daughter, Phoenix.
Michael was preceded in death by his wife, Cheryl; their son, Brad; his father, Keith Lewis; his paternal grandparents, Helen and Charlie Lewis; and maternal grandparents, Maurice Schroeder and Neola Pemble.
A private graveside gathering will be held at a later date as he is buried next to his wife and son in the Gifford Cemetery east of Monroe, IA.
Memorial contributions may be designated in the name of Mike's mom, Maureen Hagele or sister, Dawn Ulrey to help cover the final expenses and burial.
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