Michael John Shea, age 59, of Bedford, Virginia, died on August 23, 2023 from ALS. He was predeceased by his parents, Natalie Shea and John Shea. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Katy; and his children Sadie, Maeve, and Jack. He is also survived by his siblings, Barbara Pote (Rob), Maura Sackett, Suzanne Gay (Keith), Daniel Shea (Bonni); and numerous beloved brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; and nieces and nephews. Mike graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York in 1989. He worked in restaurants in Roanoke, Cape Cod, and Martha’s Vineyard before joining Meriwether Godsey in Lynchburg in 1997. As an integral part of the company, he held Executive Chef and Director positions at various locations until he resigned in 2020 due to his illness. Mike’s greatest joys were the meaningful connections and memories created through food, music, and nature that he shared with his family, friends, and colleagues. Mike’s unwavering optimism and gratitude for life’s simple pleasures was a guidepost for his family and loved ones, not just during his illness, but throughout his entire life. The family wishes to express their deep gratitude for the many loving kindnesses shown by so many during the last few years. Donations in Mike’s memory can be made to IAmALS.org/give and RadioParadise.com/support. A celebration honoring Mike’s life will be held in Spring 2024. Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.