Marie C Shank

Marie Caren Shank, 94, was called home to her Lord on December 1, 2015. She had been living for the past 4 years with her daughter Cath and family in Middleburg, Florida, and she passed on there in the comfort of her children. She is a former resident of Richmond and member of St. Edward’s parish in Bon Air. Her husband, William (Bill) Shank preceded her in death in 1995, as did her son, Kevin, in 1990.

Marie was the mother of 10 children, grandmother of 21, and great-grandmother of 12. Family, both immediate and extended, had always been a most important part of her life. She always welcomed others into her home and nurtured many who today consider Marie their surrogate mother. With class and conviction, she modeled for us a compassionate caring and generosity toward others. She took pride in the accomplishments of her children and great interest in the emerging lives of her grand- and great-grandchildren.

Marie was loved by many, especially for her genuine personal interest and individual attention. Her remarkable way of remembering the details of your story left you feeling respected and valued. Her sparkling Irish eyes and sense of humor, gentle manner, infectious laughter, and beautiful singing voice, contributed much joy at many gatherings and family reunions. She is survived by her daughters Marcia (Buzz) Miller, Pat Shank, Mary (Eric) Leo, Cathleen (Carl) Ferguson, Eileen (David) Proietti, and Theresa Shank, and her sons John (Deborah) Shank, Michael Shank, and Peter (Lisa) Shank.

The other core of Marie's long life had been her deep and abiding religious faith and spiritual practice. She was very active in her parish as a Lector and Eucharistic minister and, over the years, volunteered in a variety of other settings. A celebration of her life will be held at St.Edward’s at a later date and time to be determined. We share her wishes that donations be made to local food banks as a way to honor her passing.