Michael Shawn Deardorff

Michael Shawn Deardorff, loving husband, father and friend was born on January 26, 1954, in Lubbock, Texas, and went to be with the Lord January 18, 2025. Michael was preceded in death by his parents LeRoy and Betty Deardorff. While his family was the true delight of his life, Michael was a dedicated professional in Broadcasting and Public Relations. He made a significant impact in the media industry, showcasing his passion and talent throughout his career. Michael began his professional career at age thirteen working for KSEL radio under the mentorship of Bill McAlister; eventually becoming Program Director at the age of nineteen. Michael was a firm believer in "theatre of the mind" in broadcasting. Over 35 years, he created personalities including "The Big Dear", "Big Daddy Deardorff", "Rowdy Yates" and finally "Michael Shawn". His radio show, "Radiotalk with Rowdy Yates", was syndicated throughout Texas and the southern United States. While broadcasting in Big Spring, Texas, and thereafter, Michael met one of his lifelong friends Ben Faulkner. They had exhilarating experiences traveling together with a group of friends and trailer loads of off-road motorcycles, experiencing mountains and most notably the desert on both sides of the border in the Big Bend region of Texas. After retiring his radio personality, he successfully owned and operated an advertising and public relations firm for fifteen years. For Michael's retirement gig, he found joy in driving luxury motor coaches from coast to coast carrying various sports teams and other types of passengers. In his final phase of retirement, Michael created "The Free Range Texan Podcast" where he interviewed musical talent of all types and brought campfire stories to life. As a contribution to the Lord's Kingdom, he produced "The John Donnerberg Podcast" sharing John's Bible teachings from Ropesville's First Church of the Nazarene. He was most proud of his two children, Mariah and Cody. He loved and adored his beautiful wife, Kathy. They were married for almost thirty-eight years but knew each other and grew up together over fifty-two years. Michael's family remembers him for his unwavering loyalty, strength, humor and love of great music as well as his professional accomplishments. He was a source of inspiration to all who knew him.

Michael Shawn Deardorff

January 26, 1954 - January 18, 2025