Any woman can be a mother, but it takes someone special to be a MOM. xoxo

Aunt When I need a friend I don't have to look far I love you for being The wonderful aunt you are

Forever in our hearts! xoxo

I love all of my Aunts, but I have a special love for Bonnie because she took me & Bobby into her home when she was so young after dad was killed and tried to do her best by us. For that I'll always be grateful to her. She'll always have a very special place in mine and Bobby's heart. I share a special bond with her and her kid's. xoxo

I dedicate this song "ONE MORE DAY" to Marian from Wendell. xoxo

I dedicate this beautiful heartfelt memorial in the memory of Marian & Sadie to all of the Shaner Family.

The last time that I spoke with Aunt Marian on the phone she & I discussed my dad having a son with a woman by the name of Betty Loter. She said she didn't know anything about it. She was happy for me & Bobby that finding Bob Loter gave us some joy in our lives. She told me that Aunt Dorothy was closest to my mom because they were the oldest and always had a close relationship. I told her that it had been said that my dad cheated on my mom and she said she never heard anything like that about my dad. She told me not to believe everything I hear. The one thing I'll never forget is her telling me that Sadie reminded her of me when I was a little girl. Then to never have met Sadie and then meet her for the first time at their funeral's was an absolute nightmare. I called Aunt Marian 1 time before that last conversation with her and she was sick that day when she answered her phone. But, as soon as she knew it was me calling she wanted to talk to me regardless how she was feeling. We also talked about the rift between me and Aunt Bonnie. She e-mailed me from a motel while her & Uncle Wendell were on vacation and told me to put the past in the past and I took her advice and made amends with Aunt Bonnie. We've managed to become friends again which I owe to the memory of Aunt Marian. I love Aunt Bonnie very much and it was great spending Thanksgiving last yeat with her and her family. We enjoyed going to see Aunt Carole & Uncle Jon while we were there too. I enjoyed looking at Aunt Carole's picture's of Grandma M. especially. But, they were all great photo's. It was AWESOME to see Bonnie's kid's and their family's while John & I were there. Bonnie & John were very hospitable and it was a riot playing "HANDS & FEET" with them. Susan's son Brett is an exceptionally nice guy. John & I really enjoyed talking with him. All of Bonnie & John's grandkid's are as sweet as they can be. I look forward to many more get together's with all of them. I love them all alot! xoxo P.S. My Aunt Rose told me that when my dad met my mom it was love at first sight. That my mom had told her Betty was pregnant and she thought it was my dad's. Rose told me that my dad didn't pay child support. That he married my mom. The day I found Bob Loter after having made contact with his mother Betty Loter she told her that my dad didn't want anything to do with her after he met my mom. After my dad married my mom, Betty married somebody else and Bob was raised by her parents and was lead to believe that they were his parents. When he was in his early 20's his step-father told him who his real dad was. My dad married Rosemary Hull shortly after mom died and the day be was killed in a car wreck on his way home from work he had told her that he had something he wanted to tell her and the whole family and never did get the chance. There's no doubt in my mind that dad was going to tell everybody about his son "Bob Loter". He loved all of his kid's alot. He was only 30 years old when he was killed. If my dad would have cared anything for Betty Loter he wouldn't have married Rosemary. She went about her life and dad went about his with marrying my mom and having me & Bobby. Dad was super protective of all his kid's. He wouldn't have left us for anything in this world had he not been killed and taken from us. He and my mom both loved kid's and would have liked to have had another child but couldn't because of mom getting cancer. Dad also adored Shirley and would have thought the world of Sharon too but he was killed when Shirley was about 1 1/2 and Sharon was born 1 day after his funeral. My dad may not have been perfect but he dearly loved my mom and all of his kid's. I don't believe that he was ever un-faithful to my mother. What- ever went on between my parents, or Sonny & Rose was their business. Like Aunt Marian said "WE ALL NEED TO PUT THE PAST BEHIND US". I for one don't have time to re-live the past. With losing Marian & Sadie it goes to show how short and precious life is and I for one want to live out the rest of my life being happy and living for what's good in my life today. None of us can change the past, so why dwell on it? We all need to live our life as if this is our last day on earth to be with our loved one's. I love all of my mom & dad's family with all of my heart! xoxo

My mom spent the last 2 weeks of her life with Aunt Marian on their farm. My mom died shortly after with cancer at the young age of 26. She came back home to Grandma Phillip's and went back into the hospital a few short day's later and passed away. She had gone to Aunt Marian's because Bobby & I were too much for her with being so sick, plus there was only a oil burner in Grandma's front room where mom's bed was and the house wasn't warm enough for mom with being so ill. Aunt Marian was talking to me about that the last time we talked on the phone. She said my mom was nothing but skin and bone.

When Bobby & I were kid's we went to spend 2 weeks with Aunt Marian and Uncle Wendell. I was about 14 years old. There's a picture of me standing in the side of their yard with a blue and white summer sailor's jumper on.

The very last time that I saw Aunt Marian & Uncle Wendell together was at my Grandma Phillips's visitation. I saw her & Uncle Wendell standing and talking with Bobby and one of my other Aunts. I walked up behind Aunt Marian and tapped her on the shoulder and she turned around and goes, oooh! and we all laughed. It was so cute the way she was caught off guard and the way she responded when she saw me. We hugged one another and that was my last time to see my sweet Aunt Marian. I'll never forget that moment that we shared for the last time. She was a sweetheart! xoxo

Mother's hold their childs hand for a little while, but their hearts forever! xoxo

Shaners lose 2 loved-ones, others critical Tragedy striked so suddenly, just as it did Sunday evening when a vehicle collision near Chicago killed four people and seriously injured two. Dead are Marian [Land] Shaner, rural Stronghurst and her 10 year old granddaughter, Sadie Shaner, Stronghurst. Marian's son Wendell Shaner Jr. Yorkville and another granddaughter, Samantha [Shaner] Lionberger, La Harpe remain in serious condition. A third sister had remained home to the attend the southern homecoming. The two occupants of the other vehicle were also killed in the accident which happened in Kendall County near Yorkville, IL. On Tuesday, school social workers and psychologist from around the area were called in for additional support at Southern Jr. High in Media, where Sadie was a fifth grader, to help students and teachers deal with their grief. Sadie's locker was tied with balloons and a sign "We'll miss you", and many tears flowed. "After dealing with the initial grief, the students became very involved making cards, drawing picture's and making a small memorial", said principal Jack Nichols. Handouts were sent home with students to help parents with their child's grief. Mr. Nichol's also stated, "Sadie was a very special little girl and a joy to be around. She will be sorely missed by all of us here at the school and in our community". The Community is rallying together to help the family through this crisis in any way they can. At this time funeral arrangements are pending at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Stronghurst.

Yorkville Ill. Four people are dead and two others are in critical condition today after an accident on Illinois Route 126 near Yorkville, in northern Illinois. Kendall County Coroner Tofty says two Chicago men died last night after their vehicle went off the pavement, came back onto the road and crossed the center Line, where it collided with a second vehicle. Tofty says those men have been identified as 33 year old Jack Zborek and 18 year old Jakeb Haniaezyk. Illinois State Police Master Sergeant Brian Mahoney says the other car was driven by 45 year old Wendell Shaner of Yorkville. Two of his passengers-64-year old Marian Shaner and ten year old Sadie Shaner both of Stronghurst were killed. Wendell Shaner and another passenger, 19 year old Samantha Lionberger of La Harpe, remain in critical condition.

FOOTPRINTS One night a man had a dream. He dreamed he was walking along the beach with the Lord. Across the sky flashed scenes from his life. For each scene he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand; one belonging to him, and the other to the Lord. When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he looked back at the footprints in the sand. He noticed that many times along the path of his life there was only one set of footprints. He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life. This really bothered him and he questioned the Lord about it "Lord, you said that once I decided to follow you, you'd walk with me all the way. But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why when I needed you most you would leave me". The Lord replied, "My precious, precious child, I love you and I would never leave you. During your times of trial and suffering , When you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you". "I am with you always" Matthew 28-20

"All things work together for good to those who love god".

Friends are gifts that heaven sends!

Aunt your love inspires me! xoxo

Sister's in Christ!

"How precious it is, Lord to realize that you are thinking about me constantly!

FOR THOSE I LOVE For those I love, For those who love me When I am gone, release me, let me go... I have so many things to see and do. You must not tie yourself to me with tears, Be happy we had so many years. I gave you my love, You can only guess, How much you gave me in happiness... I thank you for the love you each have shown, But now...it is time I travelled on...alone. So grieve for me awhile. If grieve you must. Then let your gief be comforted by trust. It's only for a while we must part, So bless the memories that lie within your heart. I won't be far away, for life goes on. So if you need me, call and I will come. Though you can't see me or touch me, I'll be near. And if you listen with your heart, you'll hear. All my love around, soft and clear. And then, when you must come this way along... I'll greet you with a smile and "Welcome Home".

When I must leave you for a little while, Please go on bravely with a gallant smile And for my sake and in my name, Live on and do things the same- Spend not your life in empty days, But fill each waking hour in useful ways- Reach out your hand in comfort and in cheer, And I in turn will comfort you and hold you near.

Aunt Marian has 2 brother's Sonny & Johnny that she also loved very much. Uncle Sonny passed away after Aunt Marian.

"We all loved you & Sadie". Aunt Marian, I'll never forget the day you & Sadie died. Aunt Barb emailed me the newspaper clipping, and Oh...how I cried! Just going out for pizza...taking an innocent ride. Sadie was a beautiful 10 year old little girl, who won't get to experience being a bride. I can only imagine what Wendell Jr. & Samantha went through. I'm sure the driver regrets driving drunk and killing both of you. I know you adored your family, and they thought the world of you & Sadie too. You were the heart of the Shaner Family... You were the glue. Uncle Wendell takes 1 day at a time. Its been 1 hard mountain for the Shaner family to climb. I've been invited by your sister's to join them for a "Sister's week-end", sometime. You were the love of Uncle Wendell's life! You were his world...his wonderful wife. It brings all of us comfort to know you & Sadie are in heaven with "OUR LORD & SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST". Have you taught my mom how to play "HANDS & FEET"? You'd better your eye on Grandma, coz she complains when she's losing and doesn't like to get beat. Playing cards and Uno down on the farm with Grandma, you and Uncle Wendell was quite a treat. John had all of us cracking up when he asked Grandma if she'd like a little cheese with that whine! Ha!Ha! To go back in time and hear it again I'd spend my very last dime. I find myself missing you both all the time. I'll never forget Uncle Wendell throwing his shoe at Grandma's bathroom door. The harder we'd laugh he did it all the more. Aunt Barb made good bacon, that's for shore. I laughed until my sides were sore. You & Uncle Wendell's marriage fit like a hand in a glove. You were so devoted to each other...so much in love. You & Uncle Wendell were a couple of "LOVE DOVES". Thank-you Aunt Marian for sending John & I that sweet home made Anniversary card 3 months before you passed away. It's quite a keepsake to me...what more can I say? You & Uncle Wendell will be together again someday. I took your advice and let go of my painful past. I'm happy that Aunt Bonnie & I are friends at last. Life's too short to hold grudges..it goes by so fast. My mom wrote Aunt Rose a letter when she was sick and was feeling a little down. She told Rose that Grandma Mellinger had bought her a pretty gown. My mom thought Grandma Mellinger was the best mom around! None of us were ready for you & Sadie to go. But, there's no guarantee's of tomorrow, as we all know. Rest in peace "Aunt Marian", and remember that "we all loved you & Sadie so". Love, Margie Hillgartner Marian's niece xoxo

My husband John got me this beautiful card and it means so much to me. John & I are a couple that are so much like my Aunt Marian and Uncle Wendell. John & I have the same kind of love for one another that Marian & Wendell had. So, I wanted to dedicate this awesome card to Aunt Marian from her wonderful husband, Wendell Shaner. When I met you, I had no idea how much my life was about to be changed... but then, how could I have known? A love like ours happens once in a lifetime. You were a miracle to me, the one who was everything I had ever dreamed of, the one I thought existed only in my imagination. And when you came into my life, I realized that what I always thought was happiness couldn't compare to the joy loving you brought me. You are a part of everything I think and do and feel, and with you by my side, I believe that anything is possible. Thank you for the miracle of you... You are, and always will be the love of my life.

Dear Youngest, "Sadie" The oldest child in a family Has photographs galore, A baby book written in great detail. Enough clothes to fill a store. By the time the last child comes along The newness has worn away. So it gets to have the hand-me-downs And is told, "Run along and play". You were this "baby" in our home, [the" end of the line" you might say] But what a blessing it was to us When God sent you our way. You've filled our life with happiness, You've filled our hearts with pride. It would be impossible to love you more, No matter how hard we tried. To our precious daughter Sadie Shaner xoxo Love you forever, mom & dad Scott & Jodi Shaner

Grandma You have a place within our hearts That no one else can fill. You're the dear and special Grandma that we love and always will. We'll always love you Grandma Marian! Love, all of your grandkid's. xoxo

My Aunt is special! xoxo

Your special understanding, the thoughtful things you do, have made me very thankful to have a friend like you.

Sister You're a wonderful friend, Who gives of herself again and again, More than a sister- a friend who's a treasure, cherished for always amd loved beyond measure.

May god be with you today and always! xoxo

Mom, You've always been, You'll always be, Very near and dear to me... And I'll always feel as I do today... I love you more then words can say. We love you mom! Wendell Jr., Scott & Roger xoxo

Sister A little angel especially for you, With warmest thoughts and prayers, And a little reminder that every day There's someone who loves you and cares.

Daughter You're a special part of all that's precious to my heart. And now and forever, you'll always be, the sweetest daughter in the world to me. Sadie, you'll always be our little girl! Love, mom & dad xoxo

You'll always be in our heart! xoxo

Grandmother you mean the world to me! xoxo

The Touch of The Master's Hand Whenever your life is out of tune And no melody soothes your soul, Look to the Master who's gentle touch Will bless you and make you whole, Like an old violin with so little worth, A life may be far less than grand, But may be transformed in a moment By The Touch of The Master's Hand.

When things in life seem hard to handle... just know that God is watching over you, I know because I asked him to.

I Believe in Angels Their presence is everywhere- In the warmth of a helping hand, In the smiles that people share... I believe that angels are special messengers of love... God's way of making Earth a bit more like Heaven above.

God's Promise God didn't promise days wihtout pain, laughter without sorrow or sun without rain. But God did promise strength for the day.. comfort for the tears, and a light for the way. And for all who believe in his kingdom above, He answers their faith with everlasting love.

Little blessings make each day beautiful!

I'm Free Don't grieve for me for now I'm free, I'm following the path God laid for me. I took his hand when I heard him call, I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, To laugh, to live, to work, or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way, I've found my peace at the close of the day. If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Ah yes, these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life's been full, I've savored much. Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch. Perhaps my time seemed all to brief, Don't lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me. God wanted me now, he set me free.

The Twenty-Third Psalm The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want He maketh me to lie down in green pastures He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteouness for his names sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death. I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies. thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

THE LORDS PRAYER Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth, As it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, And the power, And the glory for ever. Amen

Marian & Sadie went everywhere together. You can bet Marian's showing her little granddaughter off to all of our loved one's in heaven! xoxo

Sadie was the apple of her Grandma Marian's eye! xoxo

Good-bye my friend! xoxo

I miss you mommy, daddy, Samantha & Molly! xoxo

Dear Wendell Jr. & Samantha, I'm sure glad you guy's are both ok. I want you all to know that Sadie & I are together here in heaven and we'll save a special place for you & your Grandpa. We'll be waiting for you at "HEAVEN'S GATES"! xoxo

Dear mommy & daddy, don't worry about me coz Grandma's taking good care of me! xoxo

Grandma & I are in heaven and we're doing fine Grandpa! xoxo

Grandmother, you have a "HEART OF GOLD"! xoxo

Mother, you fill my life with love! xoxo

Your heart is where my heart will always be! Marian & Wendell forever. xoxo

A good Friend is a lifelong treasure! xoxo

One more day, One more time! Marian & Wendell will see that sunset together in heaven someday! xoxo

Friend I love you for your caring ways For the joy and laughter we share You bring beauty to my life Just by being there.

A good friend is one who knows where you have been, accepts you for what you are, and encourages you to grow.

If Grandmothers were flower's, I'd pick you! xoxo

To My Dear Aunt, Some things in life only an aunt can provide: a certain type of loving support, a special kind of encouragement, an aunt is a unique blend of family and friend. You have consistently provided me with this support, encouragement, and friendship. Thank you for caring for me in your special way. I will always love you Aunt Marian, Love, Margie xoxo

Aunt, you brighten each day with kindness! xoxo

Dear Aunt, I hope I can express it For I want you to see How thankful I am for you You mean so much to me. I give thanks to god For putting our lives together You're the greatest Aunt In the world and I'll love you Forever. Love, Margie & Bobby xoxo

Sister I want you to know what it means to me just to know I can pick up the phone, hear your voice on the other end, and know I an not alone. You share in my laughter and are there when I need a hug with your warmth and thoughtfulness. You are a cherished friend. I love having you for a sister. I have been blessed more than anyone could be. I love you with a most special love, and thank you for loving me. xoxo Marian has 6 sister's. Dorothy, Louise, Bonnie, Barbara, Janette, & Carole. They lost my mom in "1963" with cancer and now Marian. They've always been very close sister's.

Sister's at Birth, Friends for life! We love you & miss you Sadie! You'll always be our sister. Love, Samantha & Molly xoxo

God couldn't be everywhere so he made Grandma's! xoxo

Always my sister, Forever my friend! xoxo

A sister is a heritage different from the rest- A sister is a blessing that makes one doubly blessed. A sister is a segment of yourself, a given part, that come what may of joy or storm. A sister is a special gift god minted from the sun. How do I know these things so well? He gave me one.

Daughter & A Mother There is a special bond between us That others do not know. It keeps us linked together No matter where we go. It is strong when we're together And it is strong When we're apart. and no one can break it Because it is deep within out hearts. It cannot be explained with words. It's just the way we know each other. It is a secret that is only shared Between a daughter and a mother. Hugs n' kiss's to you Sadie! xoxo Love, mom Jodi Shaner

Grandmother The many wonderful friends that came To see you had many things to say They told of all the wonderful things You've done, each and every day. You were like a mother to more Than us, they'll miss you one and all But we all know that god needed you So you He had to call. You'll spend the rest of your days In god's wonderful, beautiful land While we're down here on earth Will try to understand. We'll try to live like you had done Before you were to go We try to be and live like you but I'm afraid we're learning slow. So now as you look down from above Upon your former home You'll know that we'll be thinking Of you, no matter where we roam.

MOM Yes, Mom, we'll miss you More than you'll ever know But we know, Mom, it's a blessing For you to get to go. We know that you're with Jesus We see it in your face We know you're up in heaven Resting in his grace. We know that you look happier Than you have for years For you're resting in peace, But still we'll shed some tears. We'll long to tell you all the things That are always on our mind For we used to come to you with Our troubles all the time. So sleep in peace, Mommy dear You've earned a peaceful rest We'll carry on here on earth For we've been doubly blessed. Love your 3 son's, Wendell Jr., Scott & Roger Shaner xoxo

Together I do not ask for wealth or fame But just to live with you- To feel your charm and loving presence About me all life through- I never want to stray beyond The reach of your strong hand- Or lose the music of your voice That says you under- stand- I dream of you and cherish you No matter what the weather- The only thing I ask of god Is that we be together!

I'd Marry You Again With tiny tears that glistened, my eyes were fixed on you, and thinking of the life we'd share we softly said, "I do". Our hearts were knit together from the time that we first met, and memories were gathered that we never will forget. While daily living life with you, you saw the real me, and still you chose acceptance. a lifelong mystery. With many happy times gone by and others when we cried, some day's we'd share so endlessly. While other days we'd hide. With all the ups and downs we've had in learning to be friends. I know that in this heart of mine. I'd marry You Again.

For My Wife You've made our home a special place, my favorite place to be. You've made life something wonderful and meaningful for me- You've made me want to give you all the love and joy I can- You've made me what I am today- a very happy man! xoxo Marian was the love of Wendell's life!

Thank you for setting up this memorial to Marian Shaner. We hope that you find it a positive experience developing the site and that it becomes a place of comfort and inspiration for you to visit whenever you want or need to.

I am I and you are you, whatever we were to each other that we still are. Speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? Life means all that it ever meant, it is the same as it ever was.