Shauna Stephenson Sorenson, 56, died Sunday, April 28.

She was born to parents, Conrad and Kay Stephenson. She was raised in Modesto with her older brother Jeff and younger sisters Lori and Lynda. She and her sisters often laughed together remembering the days of their childhood. She was admired by her siblings. Stories are often shared of her courage growing up and testing situations for her brother to follow.

She was a resident of Oakdale for approximately 25 years.

Her passion and love for animals started at a young age, resulting in many trips to the pound where she would select the saddest looking cat to take home and name Blackie, again. She took any chance she had to rescue animals of any kind. She will be remembered for her tender heart with a strong affinity for the weak, the outcast, and the underdog.

She met her future husband, Jim, on a water-ski double date. However, he was not her date, but he made an effort to win her heart. They were married three months later on Nov. 3, 1979. Her husband remained her loyal companion and best friend.

Mrs. Sorenson was blessed to achieve her life-long goal: to be a mother. She was an amazing example of patience and sacrifice; always a defender of her children. She loved all children; she served for many years in various callings throughout her church; her most favorite being in the primary. Her faith was bestowed upon all those who came to know and love her.

She adored her dogs Nelly, Brewster, and Bella. She was a loving wife, adoring mother and grandmother, and loyal friend.

She is survived by her husband, Jim Sorenson; daughters, Jessica (Nate), Erica (Dean); sons, Blake, Taylor (Brooke); mother, Kay Stephenson; siblings, Jeff (Beth), Lori (Jeff); and Lynda (Barry); grandchildren, McKaydin, Audrey, Aidan, Ava, and Mason.

She was preceded in death by her father, Conrad ‘Steve’ Stephenson; and granddaughter, Tessa Panter.

Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 4 at the LDS Chapel, 1111 East A St., Oakdale.

The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader

May 1, 2013