R. Paul Shallenberger

1931 - 2017

Ronald “Paul” Shallenberger, age 86 and a lifelong resident of Elwood, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully on Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at his residence following a series of health issues.  He was born October 25, 1931 in Elwood, the son of Ronald C. and Blanche (Kleyla) Shallenberger.  Paul worked in production at Delco Remy division of General Motors in Anderson for 30 years and retired in 1981.  He was formerly a member of the Central Wesleyan Church in Elwood where he enjoyed attending services.  Paul was a 1950 graduate of Frankton High School, and later served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps, and proudly fought during the Korean War.  He married Etta Mae Patton on April 27, 1985, and they shared over 32 years of marriage together.  Paul was a member of the U.A.W. #662 in Anderson; the National Rifle Association; and was formerly a member of the Elwood V.F.W. and Am-Vets.  He especially enjoyed collecting knives and guns.  Paul also formerly enjoyed spending time outdoors boating, hunting, fishing, raccoon hunting, and spending time camping in their RV.  Paul was an avid motorcyclist, and loved Harley Davidson motorcycles.  More than anything, he will be remembered as being a “family man” who loved spending time with all of his family - especially his grandchildren.  He will be truly missed by all who loved him.


Paul’s family includes his wife, Etta Mae (Patton) Shallenberger of Elwood; 3 sons, Mike (wife Beth) Shallenberger of Georgia, Paul (wife Sandra) Shallenberger of Elwood, and Jon (wife Cheri) Shallenberger of Greentown; 2 step-children, Sam (wife Missy) Mireles of Elwood, and Michelle Mireles of Elwood; 9 grandchildren, Brittan (husband Adam) Cosby, Bodie Shallenberger, Chloe Shallenberger, Tanner Shallenberger, Taylor Shallenberger, Sammy Mireles, Alex Mireles, Seth Mireles, and Remington Shallenberger; and 4 nephews.  Paul was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Leah (and husband Dale) Gillam.


A funeral service celebrating Paul’s life will be conducted at 11:00 am on Saturday, December 30, 2017 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Rev. Matt Miller officiating.  Burial will follow in Elwood City Cemetery.  Military honors will be conducted by the U.S. Marine Corp and the Elwood V.F.W. Honor Guard at the cemetery.  Visitation for family and friends will be held from 3:00 to 7:00 pm on Friday, December 29, 2017 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Central Wesleyan Church through the funeral home.  Online expressions of condolence may be made at copherfeslermay.com.