Shelbi Kay Elwell

We were saddened with the news of what happened to the Elwell's six year old and their only daughter when we received a message from Rian that morning on New Years Eve. Shelbi passed away on December 30, 2008 from a sudden illness at American Fork Hospital. They believed that Shelbi had a bowel obstruction or a blockage inside in her tummy area that caused her death. The Elwells were our closest friends over the years. It broke our hearts that the Elwells had to go through this difficult time. Rian and MeLea were one of most amazing parents I had ever known and they were so good with their children. They knew what was best for them and had taught them the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our boys used to play with Shelbi every time we visited the Elwells. We are still praying for them each day that they may have peace over this and we'll never forget Shelbi. I'm sure she's happy with her deceased friends and family in the Spirit World. We know that we will see her again someday.

Here's the obituary:

“Shelbi Kay Elwell 2002 ~ 2008 Our little princess, Shelbi Kay Elwell, age six, passed away from a sudden illness on Dec. 30, 2008.Shelbi was born to her loving parents, Rian and MeLea Elwell on Feb. 26, 2002. Shelbi loved princesses, Barbies, playing with her cousins, her brothers, and her many friends. She was a happy and fun loving little girl. She shared hugs and kisses with her family. She attended Pony Express Elementary School where she was in the first grade. Survived by her parents, her brothers, Cameron, Nathan and Carter, grandparents, Brad and Debra Sheppard, Ted and Roxene Kresser, Jack and Marsha Elwell, great grandparents, Grant and Karen Stubbs, RueLeen Sheppard, Susan Elwell, Frankie Barney, aunts, uncles, and many cousins. Funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 3, 2009 at 11 a.m. at the Eagle Mountain East Stake Center, 4506 E. Pony Express Parkway, Eagle Mountain, Utah. Viewings Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the church and Saturday 9:30-10:45 a.m. prior to the funeral. Burial, American Fork Cemetery.”

We attended their viewing that Saturday. There was so much we wanted to offer for the Elwells. It was tough seeing MeLea and Rian greiving over this. The funeral went beautifully and it was FULL! I was grateful that MeLea and Rian had so many friends and family there to support them. We all love you, Rian and MeLea!