Connie Shella

Connie Shella, 64, of Indianapolis departed this life Wednesday, January 23, 2019. Connie was born September 5, 1954 in Minneapolis, MN to the late Dean and Florence (Johnson) Cates. She grew up in Faribault, MN graduating from Faribault High School in 1972. Connie then earned nursing degrees from St. Mary’s College and the University of Minnesota. She went on to become a Certified Diabetes Educator, later earning her certification as a Master Gardener from Purdue University. Connie worked for hospitals in Rochester, MN, Cedar Rapids, IA, and Grand Rapids, MI. In Indianapolis she worked for Methodist Hospital, and a diabetes clinic before joining Eli Lilly and Company. For many years she worked as a professional relations liaison traveling the globe. She was known for her empathy and devotion to the cause of battling diabetes. She raised two children with type 1 diabetes and volunteered at diabetes camp for 22 years. There was still time for cooking with her ‘Gourmet Club’, tending to her gardens and cheering for her Indianapolis Colts. She was sadly preceded in death by her beloved son, Andy Shella in 2010. Connie is survived by her devoted husband, Jim Shella; her loving daughter, Kate (Dave Adair) Shella; sister, Lisa Lano and brother, Mark Cates. Visitation for Connie will be from 4 – 7 pm on Friday, February 1st at Leppert Mortuary – Nora Chapel. Memorial services will begin at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 2nd at Pleasant View Lutheran Church (801 W 73rd St, Indianapolis, IN 46260). In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Andy Shella Scholarship Fund in care of the American Diabetes Association – Indiana Affiliate: 8604 Allisonville Road, Ste. 140, Indianapolis, IN 46250. Online condolences available at: www.leppertmortuary.com