ALICE JANINE SHAEFFER-KATONA
April 04, 1962-August 27, 2016
Alice Janine Shaeffer-Katona, 54, passed away on August 27, 2016, ending her long battle with MS. Alice was born on April 4, 1962 in Everett, Washington to William Floyd and Louise Marie (Sayre) Shaeffer.
Alice graduated from Wasson High School and went on to attend Adelphi Business College, University of Northern Colorado. She received her B.A. from Metropolitan State University and also completed education in travel and worked in the industry as a travel consultant for five years. She then went on to work at Lithia Jeep Chrysler where she became the head Five Star and Safety Coordinator. At Barclay’s/First Source call center, she showed her communication skills by becoming one of the top producer’s account manager.
One of Alice’s greatest enjoyments was traveling the world. While traveling, she would be planning her next adventure with much excitement to see new places. Cruises were especially a high point. She was able to connect with people and make new friends from all parts of the world while onboard. Some travels even included honoring her father by unveiling a monument dedicated by the French government to his Air Force squadron in Picauville, France on D-day’s 70th anniversary. A drive from Colorado Springs passed the Panama Canal, cruising to Alaska, South Pacific and the Eastern and Western Caribbean, visiting many countries in Western and Eastern Europe.
Everyone that knew Alice loved her. She had an infectious laugh that made the whole world smile and want to laugh with her. Anyone that knew Alice would agree she was always “dressed to the nines.” When she walked into a room, both men and women gave a nod that there is a Classy Lady.
Alice was an avid Redwings fan. She dressed, talked and walked it. Her favorite music groups included The Rolling Stones and The Grateful Dead. She would often say about The Grateful Dead, “Who are they and why are they following me?” Her favorite actress was Lucille Ball.
A favorite pastime was billiards (which she became quite proficient at). She had her own custom stick and looked forward to playing a few days a week.
Growing up, she belonged to Job’s Daughters and worked her way up, being elected Honored Queen of Bethal #23 in Colorado Springs.
Alice had a love of horses that was unending. She grew up owning horses and traveled to compete in the equestrian arena. She was voted 1979 Fair Queen and a Pikes Peak Rangerette, which is a group that promotes the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo, recognizing her for her leadership abilities.
Alice leaves behind her husband and soul mate of 28 years, Thomas; nephews: Mark F. (Deana) Shaeffer and family from Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, Jason W. (Melissa) and their son, of Larkspur, Colorado and Mathew F. (Elizabeth) Shaeffer and family of South Lyons, Michigan. Her father, William; mother, Louise; brother, Douglas F. Shaeffer and a sister, Nancy J. Helland preceded her in death.
Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 9, 2016 at St. Michael The Archangel Episcopal Church, 7400 Tudor Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919. Private inurnment will take place at the Shrine of Remembrance Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, 611 North Weber Street, Suite 101, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903 in Alice’s name.