Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1985
DIED
2017
FUNERAL HOME
Stephen Shaner Obituary
Born on May 3, 1985, in Erie, he was the son of Ronald D. Shaner (Ocala, Fla.) and Deborah A. Shaner Little (Erie).
A graduate of Fairview High School in 2003, he lived in San Francisco and Ocala, Fla. before returning to Erie in July 2016.
He was currently employed by Odis 12, had worked at Rum Runners, but enjoyed many happy years as a "Bug Man" with PDQ Pest Control, and was an expert when it came to many bug-related questions.
Our Skunk was an extraordinarily talented drummer, having played in many local bands, and was a lover of an eclectic variety of music and a connoisseur of many craft beers, a self-proclaimed hop-head. Always down for a road trip, Steve had a deep love for concerts and shows, and formed a special connection with many bands, particularly Brothers Past, the Disco Biscuits, and American Babies. A charismatic, free spirit and thinker, Steve always had a smile on his face, a kind word for you, and made friends wherever he went.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Raymond Shaner.
He was not only survived by his parents, but also grandparents, Robert and Norma Ferrara of Vandergrift, Pa. and Joyce E. Shaner of Erie, also a sister, Ann (Tom) Fabrizio, niece ,Nina, nephew, Gino, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as a nationwide network of friends.
Though he was supported by his family and loved by so many, his addiction sadly took him from this life too soon. While we are grieving, we know that our beloved Skunk was so much more than the devil that eventually stole him from us.
Family and friends are invited to join us at the Dusckas-Martin Funeral Home & Crematory Inc., 4216 Sterrettania Rd., Erie, PA 16506, on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. until the celebration of his life at 7:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that memorials be made to Steve's GoFundMe account (SkunkFund - Family of Steve Shaner), to help with his final expenses.
Sign the Guestbook at www.GoErie.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Shaner
Sponsored by Dusckas - Martin Funeral Home.
May 14, 2017
We are a group of citizens in our community working on fighting addiction. We need to do better for our community and we will. I would like to share with you what we are working on. Please join us! 823-3370.
March 9, 2017
I share your pain. I also lost my only son tragically at the age of 26. It is so hard when you don't get to say good-bye. My heart goes out to you. Sue
Joyce Ravnikar-Kulyk
February 27, 2017
Although it is all in God's Hands... sometimes it doesn't make sense. My prayer is yours with a BIG hug.
John & Joyce Baldwin
February 25, 2017
Our deepest sympathies on your loss. No words can express our sorrow at the news.
Bridget Knapp
February 24, 2017
My deepest sympathy for your loss... My heart is heavy with sadness knowing Steve was taken far too early!! He's in God's loving arms now... I'm so sorry Ron, Mom, and Annie!
Much love to you all~ Bridget, Khyli, and Michael
RIP Steve
Kelly Hunter
February 23, 2017
Debi,
I'm so sorry for your loss. May you and your family find some peace in the days ahead. We love you and know we are hear for you if you need anything.
love,
Kelly
Gale Fish
February 23, 2017
Steve,
You are so sadly missed already. You were such a great guy I got to know through your visits at Hanes Erie when you worked for PDQ and your visits to my home once a year to take care of the " spiders" You knew my great fear of spiders and always teased me about them.
You were such a free spirit and always a happy smile..Remember when you came into Hanes I would say here comes the bug boy and one day you said Can you call me bug man now ( not boy)..You were such a sweetheart.I will always remember your stories and talking to me about your music and love of snowboarding and just seeing the happiness in your eyes when you talked about your interests and love of the outdoors.
Fly with the angels now ( bug boy) oops ( bug man)..RIP sweet, sweet boy.
Cheryl Bane
February 23, 2017
I'm so sorry for your loss. May Gods loving arms wrap your broken hearts.
Linda Bauer
February 23, 2017
Ron and family,
So sorry to hear about your son. I know it is very hard at this time for you, but always just remember the good times and know he is out of his pain. May he R.I.P. and my prayers are with you.
Betsy Chuhran
February 22, 2017
We met Skunk at my nephew Adam Retcofsky's graduation party. His band played the entire evening. They laughed and danced without a care in the world. Little did we know that less than 15 years later they would both be gone. Just know you are in my thoughts and in my heart. I thought very highly of Steve and am very sad at his passing.
February 22, 2017
February 22, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. My God wrap you in his loving
arms and comfort you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Barbara McGranahan, Bullhead City, Arizona
June and Larry Kessler
February 22, 2017
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Steve. Please know you are in our thoughts, our prayers and our hearts.
Larry and June Kessler
Dick (Smitty) Smith
February 22, 2017
Sorry for your loss our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Billy Tiscenko
February 22, 2017
So many great memories with him, but none seem to stick out just his constant smile and good vibes! I will cherish the times I did get to spend with him some of the best were just an average work day... The one and only Skunk... I love you brother!
Danny Feldmann
February 22, 2017
RIP Skunk you were an awesome dude and a good friend!! We're all going to miss ya bro!!!
Mike & Amy Reigel
February 22, 2017
Ron and family our prayers and sympathy for the loss of your son. We pray God helps you all thru this tragic time !
Alison Thurlow
February 22, 2017
I was so sorry to hear about Steve's passing. He was a wonderful soul. You have my deepest sympathy and thoughts, Alison Thurlow
Diane Schertzer
February 22, 2017
My deepest sympathies to you and your family. Sons are so very special, and always remain a shining memory in a mother's heart.
With love and bessings
Bob Lindahl
February 22, 2017
Thinking of you Deborah, deepest condolences and thoughts for you at this time; wish I could be in Erie right now.
Alan & Diana Marinelli
February 22, 2017
Dear Debbie and family, Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers are with you at the loss of your son. Continue to remember all the wonderful times you had together. Diana & Alan
Connie and Gary Quinlan
February 22, 2017
The hurt never goes away but the sad memories are slowly replaced by the happier memories of your time with Stephen. Debbie our love and prayers go out to you and all who knew and loved Stephen.
Roger and Kris (Lombardo) Copeland
February 22, 2017
Our deepest sympathies.
Dave Fernandes
February 22, 2017
I was so shocked to see the passing of Stephen, Just want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Even though I did not know him But the Shaner family is a part of our family, and it breaks my heart to see of his passing.
Val and Bob
February 22, 2017
Ron (and Robin),
Our sincere sympathy to you
and the rest of the family on the
passing of Steve.
We have you close in our thoughts
and send prayers and our sincerest
condolences.
Val and Bob
Christopher Gloekler
February 22, 2017
The world has lost a bright light, but this gentleman will always be remembered for his style, charisma, and how he treated others. Shine on you crazy diamond.
Showing 1 - 28 of 28 results
Make a Donation
in Stephen Shaner's name
Memorial Events
for Stephen Shaner
Feb
23
How to support Stephen's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Stephen Shaner's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
