IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Harold E

Harry Profile Photo

Shafe

April 16, 1954 – March 4, 2025

Obituary

Harry was born in French Camp, California, in 1954 and spent his childhood in Lathrop and Manteca, California. In his late teens and throughout the 1970s, his adventurous spirit led him up the West Coast, where he eventually landed in Bend, Oregon. It was there that he met his first wife, Tammy, and together they welcomed their son, Nick "Shafe" (affectionately known as "the ugly child") in 1980.

Later that year, Harry left the West Coast and settled in Miami, Oklahoma. In 1982, fate brought him to the love of his life, Michele. They married in 1983, beginning a lifelong journey filled with love and devotion. The couple briefly lived in California, where they welcomed their son, Daniel "Dan-Dan," before moving to Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1986. It was there that their only daughter, Cynthia "Baby Face," was born, and where Harry spent the remainder of his life surrounded by those he cherished most.

Harry was a kid at heart, always eager to bring joy to those around him. Despite working multiple jobs, he never hesitated to be the neighborhood dad—the one who fixed bikes, let kids play basketball in his driveway, built custom ramps and go-karts, and threw the most epic Halloween parties. His generosity and selflessness made a lasting impact on his community, as he always extended a helping hand to any person in need.

A talented chef, Harry was highly regarded in Tulsa's culinary scene, bringing his passion for food to places like Oklahoma Natural Gas, the Williams Building, and the Harvest Buffet. Whether cooking for corporate events or catering for loved ones, he found joy in sharing his creations. His photography skills helped capture and market his culinary artistry, making him a respected name in the industry. Alongside his love for cooking, Harry ran a lawn care business, Harry and Son, with Daniel, where he provided top-notch service to Tulsa and the surrounding areas.

Harry had a deep love for the outdoors, spending countless hours hunting and fishing with his family and closest friends. One of his greatest joys was teaching his children and grandchildren how to fish, whether from the dock, a pond, or his beloved bass boat. In retirement, he found peace in his garden, nurturing it with dedication and sharing his homegrown vegetables with neighbors and Michele's coworkers, who raved about his produce.

A true Chevy man through and through, Harry had an undeniable love for Corvettes and classic Chevys—never, under any circumstances, would he be caught in a Ford. He was also an avid collector, spending his free time at flea markets and antique shops, often crafting wind chimes from his finds to gift to friends and family.

Above all, Harry had a special place in his heart for his German Shepherds, who were undoubtedly more spoiled than his own kids. We find comfort in knowing that when he crossed over, he was greeted by his beloved pups, Beau and Chakota.

Harry's legacy lives on in the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the countless memories he leaves behind. He will be deeply missed by his devoted wife, Michele, his children Nick, Daniel, and Cynthia, his grandchildren Keegan and Willow Shafe, Karissa Shafe, Kailey Kees, and Davey Taylor, plus all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of Harry's life will be held at a later date.

Rest easy, Harry. May the fish always bite, the engines always roar, and the garden always flourish in your memory.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Harry, please visit our flower store.

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