Michael Shawn Conrath

Michael Shawn Conrath, 62, passed away at his home on July 19, 2023.

Mike was born on January 20, 1961, in Des Moines, Iowa to Larry and Norma (Byg) Conrath. At 7 months, Mike had casts put on his legs to correct his bowed legs. Every morning his parents knew when he was awake because they heard the casts hit the floor as he climbed out of his crib. So starting as a child, he was always on the go!

Mike made many lifelong friends growing up. After graduating from Lincoln High School in 1979, he enlisted in the Army, but only if he could be stationed in Hawaii. He served there from 1980 to 1984 as a vehicle mechanic. When he was honorably discharged, he decided to move to Orlando, Florida where his mother lived. Florida is where he started as a carpenter, and at one time had his own business. Mike could fix anything and was very mechanical and artistic.

Selfless described Mike, always willing to help anyone in, anyway he could. He loved all people and animals, especially black cats.

Eventually, Mike and his mother moved back to Iowa in 2009, where he rekindled friendships. He continued with his carpenter skills to update his grandparent’s homestead in Adel. Mike became a homeowner and updated two more homes.

He had a passion for biking and a need for speed, so ultimately converted his standard bicycles into electric and could reach speeds up to 30 m.p.h.

Mike was a big-hearted man who enjoyed visiting with people and was a loyal friend. He loved his family but especially his dad, whom he cherished.

Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Norma (Byg) Conrath. Those left to cherish his memory, are his father, Larry Conrath; stepmother, Mary Conrath; and siblings, Lorrie (Ben) Thompson, Holly (Armond) DeFino, and Ryan Conrath; nieces, Gabby, Ally, and Sophia DeFino and Lylah Conrath; and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins.



Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m., followed by funeral service at 6:00 p.m., Monday, July 31, 2023, at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street, Des Moines. Burial will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Animal Rescue League or Kiya Koda Humane Society of Indianola in loving memory of Mike.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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