Shawn Michelle Shrum

Shawn Michelle Shrum, 55, of Aviston, passed away peacefully at her residence on Thursday, October 16, 2025. She was born on October 18, 1969, in Crystal Lake, Illinois, the daughter of Judith, nee Reining, Fredrick. Shawn married Ronald Boeser December 21, 2004 at their family home and he still survives there. Throughout her life, Shawn demonstrated profound strength and unwavering resilience, particularly in her courageous battle with multiple sclerosis, a condition she faced for over 20 years.

Shawn was dedicated to her education, proudly earning her Bachelor's degree with the aspiration of becoming a veterinary technician. She had a passion for animals that permeated through her actions and aspirations. Her remarkable journey included honorable service in the United States Navy during the Gulf War, where she worked as an Electronic Technician, most notably on a Russian submarine. This chapter of her life showcased her dedication, intelligence, and commitment to serving her country.

Those fortunate enough to know Shawn were deeply touched by her kind-hearted nature and her selfless attitude towards helping others. Described as the strongest person many had ever met, she seldom voiced complaints, even in the face of adversity. Her calm demeanor was an inspiration, especially highlighted during challenging times such as long waits at the VA Hospital, where she showed immense patience and grace.

Shawn found joy in simple pleasures, often delighting in her interactions with Alexa, watching movies, and conversing in Spanish with friends, creating connections that transcended language barriers.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband of almost 21 years, Ronald Boeser, who stood by her side through thick and thin. He did all he could to make Shawn's life as comfortable and happy as he knew how. He spent 198 days at her side in South St. Louis in the hospital during the Covid fiasco; driving that trip every day, never missing one. 

Shawn is also survived by her mother, Judith Fredrick; her step-children, Jared (Mandie) Boeser and Kelsey (Andy) Miller; and her beloved grandchildren, Aubrie and Mallorie Boeser, and Addison Miller. She leaves behind her mother-in-law, Lorraine Boeser; her brother, Jason (Jessica) Fredrick; her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Daniel & Jeriann Boeser, Kenneth & Danielle Boeser, and Lynn & Eric Hall; and her nieces and nephews, Sarah and Mary Boeser, and Benjamin, Nolan, and Delaney Hall.

Shawn is preceded in death by her father-in-law, Donald Boeser, who is surely showing her what he has learned since he arrived at the gates of Heaven in March, and her brother-in-law, Allen Boeser. Jake, their dog of many years that they had to put down from old age is certainly enjoying her homecoming.

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM, followed by a memorial service at 11:30 AM at Nordike Funeral Home in Aviston.

Memorials made in memory of Shawn may be made to the Paralyzed Veterans of American and will be received at the funeral home.

Love is strange. It brings you the best life that God himself has to offer if you accept it. There is a price for that love. No matter the cost, love is worth every pain and discomfort you endure. I pray each of you find love and God in your own way. It can be at church, helping someone in need and even sitting in a deer hunting stand. God is everywhere. He doesn't care how you look, what  you can do or who you do it with. God just wants to know  you. Let him in, it will bring peace to a weary soul.