Philip "Shane" Avara

1956 - 2018

Philip 'Shane' Avara was born July 31, 1956, in Ordway to Elbert and Lola Trainer Avara.

Growing up around Punkin Center and attending school in Karval he and his siblings had quite the childhood with memories of helping out on the ranch, playing sports together, and being just plain ornery.

Shane was voted Best Personality in high school and those that had the chance to visit with him even just once know why.

A joke, a laugh, and a smile were always part of the conversation.

He grew up riding horses, roping, and rodeoing and he carried this love throughout his life.

Shane graduated from the Karval High School, then attended Lamar Community College and entered their horse program.

After he married Melanney Thompson and their daughter Jessica was born, they moved to Burlington where they made their home for many years.

Working horseback was one of his greatest joys. During the week he could be found riding pens and doctoring cattle. On weekends during the summer you could find him at roping events with many of his friends and family.

During the winter, a football game was surely on the TV and of course, the Denver Broncos were "his" team no matter how rough the season looked.

Later on, Shane enjoyed his time with his two granddaughters. Telling them stories about when the Indians shot him in the knee (hence why he walked the way his did), taking them for horseback rides, and always making everyone laugh.

Shane's life was taken suddenly in a car accident Saturday, Feb. 17, 2018.

His smile and laugh will be greatly missed by many.

Preceding Shane in death are his parents, Roy Elbert Avara and Lola Patton, and one brother Elbert Dean Avara and by his stepfather William "Bill" Patton.

Survivors include daughter Jessica (Billy) Strobel of Bethune; 2 granddaughters Jamie and Julia Strobel, brothers Earl (Kathy) Avara of Byers; Clifford (Roberta) Patton of Pueblo West; Pepper (LaRay) Patton of Limon; Hugh (Peggy) Patton of Vernal, Utah; Norris (Kim) Patton of Hugo; Loyd "Red" Patton of Hugo; and sister Sandy Andrews of Brighton.

Memorial contributions can be made to the charity of choice in Shane's honor.

A celebration of Shane's life was held on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2018, at the Brown Funeral Home Chapel in Burlington with Pastor Jon Reeverts officiating.

Friends and family shared many special memories and stories of their time here with Shane.

Family and friends can sign the guestbook and register condolences at www.brownfuneraldirectors.com, or post your stories and share your sentiments on FaceBook (BrownFuneralDirectors).