In a tragic event that has deeply affected both the veterinary community and animal lovers alike, Dr. Michele Sharkey, DVM, a respected and beloved veterinarian, died after an accident on July 20th, 2024, in Littleton, Colorado. Known for her passion for animals, exceptional care, and dedication to the profession, Dr. Sharkey’s sudden death has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who knew her and worked with her.
Dr. Michele Sharkey’s passing is a devastating loss, not just to her family, friends, and loved ones, but also to the countless animals and pet owners who benefited from her skill, compassion, and tireless work. As a well-known veterinarian who had spent years caring for animals, from large livestock to beloved family pets, her death has sent shockwaves across the veterinary world.
Dr. Sharkey’s journey from a small town in Michigan to becoming a prominent veterinarian in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado was a testament to her dedication, passion, and unwavering love for animals. Born on April 8, 1990, in Lansing, Michigan, alongside her twin sister Grace, Michele was the daughter of Michael Sharkey and Tina (Lenneman) Sharkey. From a young age, Michele exhibited a deep love and empathy for animals. Her childhood was marked by a fascination with the natural world, and her aspirations to work with animals were evident to all who knew her.
Growing up in DeWitt, a small and tight-knit community, Michele’s formative years were shaped by her family’s values and the close relationships she built. She attended DeWitt High School, where she excelled academically and athletically. Michele’s love for sports was apparent through her participation in various athletic activities, notably cheerleading and golf. In 2007, she was a member of DeWitt High School’s state championship golf team, demonstrating not only her athletic abilities but also her determination and competitive spirit.
Her drive for academic excellence led her to Aquinas College, where she initially began her higher education journey. Michele’s passion for science, particularly biology, became more pronounced as she pursued her studies. However, after two years at Aquinas, she decided to transfer to Loyola University in Chicago, a pivotal decision that would further shape her academic and professional path.
Graduating from Loyola University in 2013 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology, Michele was equipped with the foundational knowledge she needed to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian. Her journey took her to Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, where she earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree in 2017. Her time at Ross University not only deepened her understanding of animal health and medicine but also allowed her to form lasting bonds with colleagues and fellow veterinary students who shared her passion.
Following her graduation, Michele began her professional career at Pol Veterinary Services in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. Here, she worked under the tutelage of renowned veterinarians, gaining valuable hands-on experience in treating a wide range of animals, from small pets to large farm animals. Her tenure at Pol Veterinary Services further solidified her reputation as a dedicated and skilled veterinarian, beloved by both her colleagues and her clients.
Though her professional journey took her to various locations, including a stint in Missouri, Michele’s heart was always drawn to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. This connection to nature and the outdoors was something that had been with her since childhood. Michele’s love for animals was matched by her love for the natural world, and in 2021, she made the life-changing decision to relocate to the Rocky Mountains. This move was not just about advancing her career—it was about realizing a long-held dream of combining her professional aspirations with her personal love for the mountains.
Settling in Littleton, Colorado, Michele quickly became an integral part of the veterinary community. Her expertise, coupled with her compassionate and gentle approach to treating animals, made her a sought-after veterinarian in the area. Clients and their pets trusted her implicitly, and her name became synonymous with exceptional veterinary care. Michele was also known for her love of education, frequently sharing her knowledge with colleagues, clients, and even younger generations interested in pursuing careers in animal care.
Outside of her veterinary practice, Michele was an avid outdoorswoman. Her free time was often spent hiking the breathtaking mountain trails, soaking in the beauty of the natural world that she loved so much. Her favorite animal, the moose, symbolized her deep connection to nature. Michele’s hikes were not just about exercise; they were a spiritual experience for her, an opportunity to connect with the wildlife and environment that she held so dear.
Sadly, it was in this very environment that Michele found peace and purpose that the tragic accident occurred. Details surrounding the accident remain unclear, but the impact of her loss has been profound. Friends and family have described Michele as a vibrant and joyful soul, someone who found happiness in the small things and lived her life with a sense of purpose. Her ability to combine her love for animals with her professional skills made her not only a remarkable veterinarian but also a person whose life had an immeasurable positive impact on everyone around her.
As news of Dr. Michele Sharkey’s passing spread, an outpouring of grief and tributes flooded social media, with clients, colleagues, and friends sharing their memories of her. Many spoke of the special bond she had with their pets, often going above and beyond to ensure that both the animals and their owners felt cared for and supported. Her loss is deeply felt, particularly in the Littleton community, where she had become a beloved figure not just for her veterinary skills but for her kindness, warmth, and willingness to help anyone in need.
In addition to her professional life, Michele’s involvement in the Sigma Alpha sorority during her college years also showcased her leadership abilities and her commitment to community service. Through this organization, she built lifelong friendships and continued to develop her skills as a leader and advocate for animals. Her sorority sisters have also expressed their sorrow at her passing, remembering her as someone who embodied the values of sisterhood, service, and dedication.
As the Sharkey family and the community mourn Michele’s untimely death, they are also planning to honor her legacy in meaningful ways. Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days, and it is expected that many will gather to celebrate her life and the positive impact she had on so many. Her family has expressed their gratitude for the love and support they have received during this incredibly difficult time and have asked for privacy as they grieve their beloved daughter, sister, and friend.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to animal welfare organizations or wildlife conservation efforts in Michele’s memory. This gesture reflects Michele’s lifelong commitment to the protection and well-being of animals, ensuring that even in her passing, her legacy will continue to contribute to the causes she cared about so deeply.
Dr. Michele Sharkey’s death is a tragic reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of the world. Her story is one of passion, dedication, and love for animals and the natural world. Though her time was cut short, the impact she had during her 34 years on this earth will be remembered by the countless lives—both human and animal—that she touched.
The veterinary community, her friends and family, and all those whose lives she enriched are left with a profound sense of loss. Yet, in remembering her life, they also celebrate a person who lived with purpose, compassion, and a relentless drive to make the world a better place for animals. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew her and in the lives of the animals she devoted herself to caring for.
