Mason, Shawn Allen

Shawn Allen Mason, 47, of LaVista, Neb., formerly of Marengo, died March 17, 2012, in Plattsmouth, Neb. Services were March 21 at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, LaVista, by the Rev. Dr. Timothy Heupel and the Rev. Keith H. Grimm. Burial was in Papillion, Neb., with full Air Force military rites.

Survivors include his wife, Vicki (Driver) Mason; his parents, Don and Carol Ann Mason; mother-in-law, Gerry Day; children, Tony (Kim) Gambaiana, Joe (Erin) Gambaiana and Julia Mason; brothers, Mike (Jen) Mason, Chris (Chela) Mason and Stephen (Amber) Mason; sisters, Denise (Rick) Sieck, Angie Maschmann, Judy (Dan) Yuska, Cassie (Kevin) Johnson and Donette (Ben) Boots; grandfather, Donald Wayne Mason; grandchildren, Grace, Rocco and Lou Gambaiana; sister-in-law, Jackie (Larry) McMillan; brothers-in-law, Cory (LaVonda) Driver and Tom Driver; many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Lois Mason and Juanita Schneekloth.

Shawn Allen Mason was born in Ottumwa, Iowa, on July 20, 1964, and grew up in Marengo. He joined the United States Air Force in December 1982 and following basic training was assigned to Offutt AFB in Bellevue, Neb., where he served until his retirement in 2004. On Aug. 20, 1988, Shawn was united in marriage with Vicki Driver and resided in Nebraska until his passing. Following retirement, Shawn returned to work as a civilian in 2nd Command at Offutt AFB.

Shawn's life was tragically taken as a result of his injuries sustained in an ATV accident on March 17. Even in death, Shawn's giving nature continued with his tissue donations that helped 32 recipients.

Shawn enjoyed golfing, boating, camping, traveling and spending time with his family and especially with his grandchildren.

Pallbearers were Tom Davis, Tim Patterson, Jack Carpenter, Joe Burgert, Brent Stock, Larry Lampman, and Mike Grasso. Honorary Pallbearers were Denise Sieck, Craig Knock, Kevin Menis, Brett Walker, Tom Driver and Cory Driver.

Memorials should be directed to the Special Olympics, c/o Kahler Dolce Mortuary, 441 N Washington St., Papillion, NE 68046-2231.

Shawn was a true inspiration and will be remembered for his love and compassion for everyone who had the honor of knowing him.

Published March 25, 2012 in The Gazette