Laraine Shellenberger

Laraine Mitchell Shellenberger, 89, of Rock Island, IL, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by loved ones, on Wednesday, September 19, 2018. Laraine was born on March 3, 1929, in St. Louis, MO, the daughter of Thelma (Dagner) and Ronald Colston.  She was nicknamed “Larry” by her Dad’s brother, Bob, as a young child. On June 23, 1951, she married the love of her life and best friend, Eugene “Gene” E. Mitchell, who died April 18, 1972. After their last child graduated from high school, she married Richard O. Shellenberger on July 12, 1977.  Dick passed away February 10, 2004. Laraine graduated with honors in 1951 from Indiana University, graduating Phi Delta Kappa with a B.S. in Health, Physical Education, and Dance.  She taught Health and Physical Education in Rockford, IL, and in her spare time, helped form a dance club called the Carousel Dance Club in Rockford. In 1979, she completed her Master of Science from Western Illinois University in Macomb, IL. Initially, “Larry” taught part-time at the Villa de Chantel in Rock Island; then, went on to teach full-time in the Rock Island School District #41, retiring in 1989. “Larry” loved spending time with her family.  She and her family were very active members in the American Turners, always believing in the adage, “Sound Mind=Sound Body”.  Since 1960, she was an active member of First Congregational Church in Moline, involved in Bible Study, Card Ministries, Congregators, Steven Ministries, and the Youth Room Ministries.  She was involved in Bible Study Fellowship for 20 years.  “Larry” was a 50 year member of the following organizations: Home Extension Prospect Park Unit in Moline, Red Cross Swimming/First Aid/CPR Instructor in Rock Island, and the Order of Eastern Star #641 in Rockton, IL.  She was a Docent at the Davenport Art Museum and Figge Art Museum, participated in AAUW, Retired Teachers, Red Wagon Education, Wheel N Steppers, and Rock Island Library Friends.  “Larry” supported the Quad City Symphony, Arts, History, Culture, and Youth activities.  “Larry” was an avid reader and continued feeding her mind and spirit by traveling the USA and world.  She also loved playing tennis, swimming, crocheting, and gardening.  “Larry” was proud of her legacy as a Mayflower Descendant and being able to pass this gift on to future generations. Laraine is survived by her children, Dr. Jerry E. (Sheila) Mitchell, Tracy (Bill) Woehrle, Lynn (Jim) Wilhelm, Kim Mitchell, and Dr. Kerry E. (Stuart) Mitchell; 11 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; cousins; and many wonderful friends and extended family.  Laraine’s siblings were John Ronald Colston and Jeanette Posthauer. A Celebration of Life Memorial service will be held at First Congregational Church, 2201 – 7 th Avenue, Moline, IL, on Friday, September 28 th , at 11 a.m., followed by a fellowship and luncheon at the church. Memorials may be made to: the Mitchell Youth Room at First Congregational Church, Moline, IL, or your favorite Youth Organization.

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