Michael Francis Shortell, beloved husband, father, veteran, and friend, passed away in Havre, Montana on September, 7th 2025. Mike was born to Oliver Shortell and Ruby Joyce Shortell on July 13th, 1946 in Lawton, Oklahoma. He returned with his family back to Havre, Montana as an infant where he grew up with his brother Kevin, sisters Linda and Tracy, and many lifelong friends. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, September 19th, 2025 at 10:00 A.M at 5th Avenue Christian Church in Havre, graveside service following with Military Honors. Holland and Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements and services.

Mike enlisted in the US Army soon after graduating from Havre High School in 1964.  He faithfully served his country from 1964 through 1967 and was a member of the 219th Aviation Company, "Headhunters" from 1965-1966 in Vietnam. Upon returning from Vietnam, Mike was stationed in Fort Rucker, Alabama. He met and married the love of his life, Shirley Ann Davis, in Dothan, Alabama in 1967. They promptly moved back to Montana, where he continued his life of service with the Havre Police Department. He was appointed Chief of Police in 1986, serving until his retirement in 2000.  He was a beloved leader and mentor to those who were privileged to serve with him.

He served on many local and state boards, most notably the Montana Board of Crime Control and received numerous awards throughout his career serving the Havre community. Though he was recognized for his achievements, he was never one to talk about them. The real reward for his work was the satisfaction of caring for others and impacting their lives for the better.  He was a humble servant.

Together, Mike and Shirley built a life filled with love with their children, Michele and David. His family was the most cherished part of his life, followed by the many friends he considered to be family.  Becoming a grandfather to grandsons Mason and Bryce, and granddaughters Kayla and Alyssa brought him the biggest joy in his life.  They loved their Papa Mike!

His quick wit and infectious laugh will be deeply missed by all.

Mike had a deep appreciation of the outdoors and his many hobbies, including fishing, hunting, gun collecting, shooting, mechanics, wood working and scuba diving, which he shared with his family and many friends. He was a man who found joy in both the precision of a well-tuned engine and the quiet of a Montana morning by the water.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Shirley, daughter Michele (Mike) Osweiler of Great Falls, Montana, son David (Kim) Shortell of Tucson, Arizona, grandchildren Mason Osweiler and  Bryce Osweiler of Great Falls, Kayla Shortell and Alyssa Shortell of Tucson, sisters Linda (Ron) McKay of Havre and Tracy (Randy) Rice of Tucson, and brother Kevin (Candace) Shortell of Havre, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oliver and Joyce Shortell, grandson Logan Osweiler, and niece Miranda (Shortell) Kirby.

He lived a life marked by service, devotion, and quiet strength.  A true patriot whose legacy lives on in the stories he shared, the values he instilled, and the memories cherished by those who knew him.  He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.