Obituary of Stephen Patrick Shaner

Stephen Patrick Shaner, lovingly known by many as simply ‘Skunk’, age 31, of Fairview, passed from this world Sunday, February 19, 2017 at UPMC Hamot Hospital. Born May 3, 1985 in Erie, he was the son of Ronald D. Shaner (Ocala, FL) & Deborah A. Shaner Little (Erie). A graduate of Fairview High School in 2003, he lived in San Francisco and Ocala, FL 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 & shows and formed a special connection with many bands, particularly Brothers Past, the Disco Biscuits, & 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 & 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 PM until the celebration of his life at 7:00 PM. 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.