Kody Jay Shutes, age 23, passed away unexpectedly in Battle Creek, MI on June 21, 2026. He was born in Kalamazoo, MI on July 17, 2002, the son of Jason Shutes and Aimee Woods. Kody attended Mendon Community Schools and was involved in the football and wrestling programs. He loved fishing and looked forward to taking trips up north with his dad to catch salmon. Kody enjoyed camping with his family at the Steinke Resort in Burr Oak, MI. For a short period of time, he was employed at Gibby’s, detasseled for Nemire’s, and helped his father with the tree business. Kody volunteered his time at local churches; cleaning, mowing, and lending a hand any way he could. He was a hard-worker, kind, helpful, and gentle soul. Putting other people first was his true calling and would help them to the best of his ability, even if that meant giving them his own personal belongings. Kody was known for his DJ skills at family dinners, listening to 90’s music, and showing off his competitive nature over a good round of Fortnite. Kody loved his family very much and will be dearly missed by many.

Kody is survived by his father, Jason Shutes (Tashina McMullen); his mother, Aimee Woods (Mike McKee); his grandfather, Gary Shutes; his grandmother, Beatrice Finkey; six siblings; Angel Mudget, Malakai (Sydney) Baldwin, Austin Baldwin, Beatrice Mikel, Shane Mikel, and Colton Shutes; his nephew, Arlo; several aunts, uncles, and extended family; and his best friend, Dontryl Frost. He was preceded in passing by his two aunts, Jenny Marie Loker and Jenny Shutes, and his grandmother, Coreen Osborn.

Visitation for Kody will be held on Monday, June 29, 2026 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home (311 W Main St., Mendon, MI 49072) from 11am until 1pm, with memorial services beginning at 1pm with Pastor Dave Stevens officiating. Following services, a luncheon will be held at Leonidas Baptist Church (31209 M-60, Leonidas, MI 49066).  Cremation will be conducted and interment will take place at a later date. 

Condolences and memories may be expressed to Kody’s family at eickhofffuneralhome.com