Denise Ann Shontz

On Monday, July 15, 2019, Denise Ann Shontz, passed through this mortal realm and now awaits her place by her Savior, Jesus Christ.   Born on a blustering winter day in Monroe City, MO on December 6, 1956, Denise spent her whole life looking for that next adventure.  Never afraid to try something new, and doubly determined if someone told her she could not do it, she pushed on with all her might.

Denise is survived by her husband, James Shontz, of the home and her three children Emily Virginia Morrow (partner Chad Steele) of Kansas City, KS, Sara Elisabeth Morrow (husband Christopher Morrow) of Bartlesville, OK and Michael Donovan Morrow (partner Amber Sewell) of Lawrence, KS.

Also survived are nine grandchildren: Riley Sewell, Kayley Sewell, Ester Jones, Michael Morrow, Peyton Sewell, Logan Morrow, Agnes Jones, Maximus Morrow, and Jamie Morrow.

Denise was born as Denise Ann Gordanier and attended Monroe City High School in Monroe City, MO.  She graduated from Columbia College in Columbia, MO with a degree in Psychology.  She had several stories published when she worked as a reporter for the Boonville Daily News in Boonville, MO.  Denise worked for Lowe's for 15 years in Bartlesville, OK and Topeka, KS until retirement.

On May 3, 2008 Denise married her current husband Jim Shontz.  They had a 'hippie wedding' on their small farm in rural Independence, KS.  It was a low budget affair but a good time was had by all.

Later in her life Denise found the most satisfaction by being surrounded by her family and friends.  She enjoyed teaching the grandchildren how to cook, play piano and sing karaoke.   Denise organized many recurring functions including Dragonfest at Pamona Lake, Harry Potter weekends and Christmas holidays.  When a given gathering ended she would immediately start planning the next one including decorations, games and food to be served.

Denise enjoyed traveling with her husband Jim.  Together they explored many parts of the United States including Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, Utah, Nevada and the Carolinas.  This past summer Denise invited all of her children and grandchildren to a trip to Harry Potter World at Universal Studios in Orlando, FL.  Everyone enjoyed the experience in Florida of seeing live alligators and swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.

Many thanks to all who took care of Denise the past few months. Denise will be missed by everyone who knew and loved her.  Three separate memorial services are planned for the summer/fall 2019 in Columbia, MO, Independence, KS and Topeka, KS.  Exact dates are not yet established but everyone will be notified in advance via text and social media.