Shana Gadt Obituary
Shana Gadt Obituary: Shana Lynne Gadt, a beloved friend, wife, and animal lover, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2023 at the age of 56 after a courageous battle with cancer. Though her time with us was cut short, Shana lived a rich life surrounded by adventure, love, and laughter.
Shana Gadt Obituary: Early Life and Travels
Shana entered the world on October 25, 1966 in Newton, Kansas, born to parents Peggy and Wayne Watts. Described as living a “big life” together, Shana and her mother Peggy traveled extensively around the U.S. in her youth following the early passing of her father.
After graduating high school in Overland Park, Kansas in 1980, Shana continued her adventures, living in exciting destinations like Chicago and Hawaii before eventually settling down in Mission, Kansas. Her passion for travel and experiencing new places never ceased.
Love of Animals and Saving Lives
Friends recall Shana’s early reputation as an “animal saver” who constantly cared for creatures in need. This lifelong love endured, especially for her two cherished dogs Daisy and Grace who brought her daily joy and laughter.
Animals were drawn to Shana’s kind and comforting spirit. She found inspiration in their innocence that influenced her upbeat approach to life.
20-Year Marriage and Blended Family
In 2003, Shana married Jeff Gadt, beginning a loving 20-year union. Along with Jeff, she inherited a wonderful blended family including stepson Jason Deihl and in-laws Wayne and Connie Gadt. Her gregarious and magnetic personality seamlessly wove Shana into the fabric of her new family.
She shared a particularly close relationship with Connie, her mother-in-law who was a vital source of support and friendship over the years.
Rewarding Career and Event Planning
Shana pursued a highly successful career in meeting and event planning over several decades. She brought her natural charisma, creativity, and hospitality to orchestrating memorable experiences for clients.
Her events were known for their attention to detail, thoughtful touches, and celebration of the people involved. Shana loved bringing people together.
Uplifting Community of Friends
Above all, Shana cultivated an amazing community of steadfast friends who she considered “her people.” She forged profound, lasting bonds with people from all parts of her life.
Her friends felt like family, frequently coming together for holidays, celebrations, or just everyday life. Shana had a special gift for uniting people through her energy.
Brave Battle with Cancer
In recent years, Shana faced her cancer diagnosis with astounding bravery, honesty, and grace that inspired all who knew her. She allowed cameras to document her journey on the reality show “The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning.”
The episode provides an incredible glimpse into Shana’s uplifting spirit and emotional connections with loved ones as she stared down her prognosis with courage.
Legacy of Joy and Resilience
While deeply mourned, Shana’s legacy shines on through the innumerable lives she touched with her humor, compassion, strength and zest for life. Friends agree she lived her 56 years to the fullest.
Whether reminiscing over funny memories or her acts of kindness, Shana will stay alive in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. The world is certainly a brighter place thanks to her vibrant spirit.
Celebration of Life
To honor her remarkable life, a memorial service will be held on September 15, 2023 at Wesley Chapel in Leawood, Kansas, followed by a reception at Shana’s home.
In lieu of flowers, her family requests donations to Gilda’s Place or Operation Wildlife, two organizations Shana wholeheartedly supported.
Though deeply missed, Shana’s loved ones find peace knowing her positive impact will resonate for generations. Her lust for life and caring nature touched countless souls.
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