Shawn Giles

Shawn Schara Giles, 36, of Fort Benton, passed away Feb. 14, 2014, at Peace Hospice in Great Falls, with loved ones gathered around.

She fought a lion-hearted and noble battle with cancer for six years. She was a devoted wife, mama-bear mother, sweet daughter and steadfast friend. She was a good example to all her family of strength and endurance. She finished her life with grace and dignity, never once complaining of the trials that had been placed in her life.

Shawn was born March 18, 1977, in Missoula to Rulon and Cherlene Hill Schara. Her family included two older brothers and an older sister, and two years later a younger brother, who became her dearest friend and lovingly helped care for her during the last days of her life. She was a good-natured, delightful baby with big dimples and blonde curls and was cherished by all.

Shawn attended school in Stevensville, Kalispell and Columbia Falls and graduated from Columbia Falls High School in 1995. She participated in many activities including dance team, drill team, band and music festivals.

She had a life-long desire to be a nurse and so attended Montana State University Northern School of Nursing and graduated as a registered nurse on May 7, 2004. She was the most loving and gently person possible, fitting the medical community perfectly. She was dedicated to nursing and was sad when her career was cut short after a few short years because of her illness. Some of her dearest friends were nurses and medical workers she worked with.

Shawn married Alex Giles in Cardston, Alberta, on Aug. 21, 1998, in the L.D.S. Temple and they had a loving and devoted relationship for 15 years. He guided his family through her illness and difficult last days with great care, love and tenderness for all. The children who are part of this family are blessed with parents who love and respect each other and love each of them. They loved traveling together as a family and did so as often as possible even after Shawn was ill.

Surviving Shawn are her husband Alex; three beautiful daughters, Jacey (17), Alexis (14), and Katelyn (12); and two delightful sons, Levi (9) and Dallin (7). Also surviving are her parents, Rulon and Cherlene Schara of Fort Benton; three brothers, Layne of Fort Benton, Joel of Hamilton, and Park (Shawna) of Bigfork; and one sister, Jill McElligott of Post Falls, Idaho. Shawn is also mourned by her in-laws, the Jerry Giles family of Fairfield, and between the families, 55 nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Shawn was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many positions. She loved children and served several years in the primary organization and as the church organist. Most recently she served as Young Women’s president in the Fort Benton branch and devoted much of her time, energy and resources to teaching the young women the gospel of Jesus Christ and the blessings of righteous living. They dearly loved her and she them.

Music was important in Shawn’s life. She was accomplished at piano, organ and flute. She thought it was important to have music in her children’s lives. She made sure they were trained with violin and piano lessons. She also taught piano lessons to others.

First and foremost a mother, Shawn’s children reaped all the benefits of her maternal and nurturing nature. They were her life focus. Knowing that she had to leave her children was hard for her to accept. Shawn loved Fort Benton and wanted to raise her children there. She felt a desire to always improve the community and was involved in many community and school events and efforts.

Shawn, from the time she was a child, touched hearts and changed lives. She was beautiful on the outside and even more beautiful on the inside. Her compassion and kindness were felt by all who knew her. She made everyone feel important and valid and was the best listener. She always cared more about others than she did for herself and was a peacemaker by nature. Many, many people will remember her impact in their lives.

Services will be held in the Great Falls L.D.S. Church Stake Center, 1015 15th Avenue South, on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2014, at 10 a.m.  with viewing at 9 a.m. and prior on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2014, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Following the service Thursday, the procession will move to the Riverside Cemetery in Fort Benton for a graveside service and interment at 1:30 p.m. Luncheon will be served at the Ag Center in Fort Benton at 3 p.m.