Michelle Jeanne Dooley, 65, St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2026, surrounded by her family.
She was born November 2, 1960 in Council Grove, Kansas, to Darrell and Linda (Wodke) Haeker. Michelle grew up in St. Joseph and graduated from Central High School.
She attended Kansas State University, where she played clarinet in the marching band, then earned her Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies at St. Joseph Junior College.
Michelle worked in the veterinary field, including at her father’s clinic, Countryside Veterinary Clinic, then earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Missouri Western State University. She worked for local nursing homes, including the Living Community.
On December 29, 1988, Michelle married Walter Lonny Dooley. He preceded her in death on August 26, 2018.
She was a lifelong member of St. Peter Lutheran Church.
Michelle was an avid reader, with true crime and historic fiction, such as Zane Grey and the Little House books, being her favorites. She loved the adventures of camping, especially at Mozingo Lake, and the family’s annual trips to Great Wolf Lodge.
Most of all, Michelle was a loving daughter, mother, and grandmother, who committed her life to raising her grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter; daughter, Sarah Walker; and grandparents, Fred and Sadie Haeker and William and Mildred Wodke.
Survivors include her parents, Darrell and Linda Haeker; brothers, Scott Haeker (Beth) and Eric Haeker (Shelly); sons, Christopher Shell and Matthew Shell (Nina); and grandchildren, Jacob Walker, Sadie Walker, Mallory Walker, Gavin Tyes, Ethan Shell, Caleb Shell, and Tucker Shell.
Farewell Services 1:30 P.M. Saturday, March 28, St. Peter Lutheran Church. Private Inurnment Memorial Park Cemetery at a later date. The family will gather with friends following the service at the church. The family suggest memorial contributions to St. Peter Lutheran Church.
