It is with deep sorrow that the Tennessee Ambulance Service Association announces the passing of Mike Shankle. Mike began his EMS career as an EMT in 1986 and later completed his paramedic training in 1990. He succeeded Terry Farris in 1990 as Director of Henry County EMS where he served for 25 years.
Mike was a staunch advocate for EMS and fought to advance pre-hospital care in Tennessee through his legislative efforts. Mike served on the TASA Board in several roles for many years. He was twice awarded the TASA President’s Leadership Award (2005 & 2008) and was also presented the TASA Ambulance Service Director of the Year Award.
Mike also served on the Henry County E911 Board for 22 years where his work elevated the Henry County E911 to one the best 911 services in the State.
Our deepest sympathies and prayers go out to his wonderful wife Diane, his family, friends and co-workers. Mike touched so many lives in a positive manner and his legacy will forever be remembered.
Obituary
George Michael “Mike” Shankle, age 63 of Springville, died Monday, October 12, 2020, at the Henry County Medical Center.
Mike retired from the Henry County Medical Center Ambulance Service, where he worked for many years and served as the director for 25 years. While serving as director he was awarded the Ambulance Service Director of the year twice by the State of Tennessee, and the Henry County Squad was awarded Ambulance Service of the Year twice as well. He was a former member of TASA, where he held many officer positions through the years. He had served on the Henry County 911 board, Tennessee State Board of EMS, and was currently serving on the board of the Paris Landing Volunteer Fire Department. In 1992, Mike started the First Responder Program in Henry County. He was a member of the Church of Christ.
Mike married Beverly Diane Garrett Shankle April 9, 1981, and she survives of Paris.
Born October 23, 1956, in Paris, he was the son of the late George Wyatt Shankle and Joan Scott Shankle, who survives of Paris.
In addition to his wife and mother, Mike is survived by a daughter, Kim (Joseph) Gwaltney of Paris; two sons, Ken (Kate) Rhodes and George Scott Shankle, both of Paris; a sister, Beverly (John) Simmons of Columbia, TN; a brother, Christopher Lee (Traci) Shankle of Paris; six grandchildren, Hannah Gwaltney, Garrett Gwaltney, John Michael Rhodes, Landon William Rhodes, Drew Meketi, and Trinity Shankle; and his miniature schnauzer Macy, whom he loved dearly.
Arrangements are being handled by Ridgeway Funeral Home, 201 Dunlap Street/PO Box 788, Paris, TN 38242. Visitation will be Friday, October 16, 2020, from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm at Ridgeway Funeral Home, with the funeral service to begin at 2:00 pm at LeDon Chapel of Ridgeway Funeral Home, with David Alan Jackson and Doug Lockard officiating.
Pallbearers will be Henry County EMS and Retired EMS workers. Honorary Pallbearers will be the Henry County 911 Board.
Burial will follow in Walker Cemetery.