Shirley Dean "Mike" Horman

Shirley Dean “Mike” Horman grew up in Onalaska, Wisconsin, with his parents, George and Calverna (Schmaltz) Horman, alongside nine brothers and three sisters. He loved his small town and spent much of his childhood walking it on his paper route. A talented athlete, Mike played basketball and competed with his team in the state tournament.

He attended La Crosse State College for two years before serving two years in the United States Army. Mike later completed his education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he met the love of his life, Barbara McCann. They were married in 1958, beginning a remarkable 67 years together.

Mike started his career in Des Moines, Iowa, where their children, Julie and Mark, were born and where they formed lifelong friendships. In 1965, the family moved to Massachusetts, where Mike worked in corporate claims for Wausau Insurance Company. The family eventually settled in Maynard, MA, becoming active members of the Sudbury United Methodist Church. Mike enjoyed playing on softball and bowling teams, joined the church basketball team, and showed off his singing and acting talents in the annual Gilbert and Sullivan productions. He also devoted countless hours to coaching and supporting his children’s and grandchildren’s sports and activities.

A dedicated sports fan, Mike loved watching the Wisconsin Badgers and the Green Bay Packers. Above all else, his greatest joy came from watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren take part in sports, concerts, recitals, and school events.

After retirement, Mike and Barbara enjoyed traveling to many countries with friends and family. Until the last two years, they never missed a Horman family reunion. Mike also volunteered for Meals on Wheels for over 20 years after he retired, a commitment that reflected his deep care for others and his community.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; his son Mark (Catina); six grandchildren—Christopher (Katelyn), Dennis (Emily), Jimmy (Allie) Kapsimalis, Brittany Brown (Justin), Patrick Parson, and William Horman; and five great-grandchildren—Lucas, Amelia, and Nolan Kapsimalis, and Norah and Oscar Brown. He is also survived by his sisters Carol Schulze and Judy Munson (Carl), and his brothers Marvin (Fran), Howard (Rose), and Neale (Sheryl).

Mike was predeceased by his daughter Julie, his parents, and his siblings: Kenneth, Wayne, Robert, Douglas, Barbara Walker, Erving, and Gerald.

Affectionately known as “Bumpa” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Mike will be remembered for his quiet strength, dedication to family, and the joy he found in being present for the people he loved.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Georgia Girl’s Care, New England Deaconess Abundant Life Community, and Bridges in Sudbury for their deep care and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sudbury United Methodist Church.

Services will be held at Sudbury United Methodist Church on Friday, March 27th. Visitation will be held from 9:45am to 11am in the chapel followed by a memorial service in the sanctuary. Lunch will be served. Burial will be private.