Tamala (Tami) Hanenkrat Shotwell, age 63, passed away peacefully at home on March 12, 2026, after a long period of declining health.
She was born on August 26, 1962, to Sonny and Betty Hanenkrat.
Tami graduated in 1980 from New Philadelphia High School where she played trombone in the marching band. Her career was dedicated to caring for others and became a nurse in 1992. It began at a young age as a Candy Striper at Union Hospital and later on as an LPN at local doctor’s offices and medical facilities. She had a huge heart and saw the good in people and was willing to help when she could. She enjoyed dressing head to toe for the holidays and was never seen without make up, jewelry and nails artfully crafted by Lacey. Tami was a sun worshipper and loved being around water by lounging and splashing in her pool, being out on a boat with family and friends, fishing in Canada, or going to the beach.
She is survived by her brother, Skip Hanenkrat and nieces Chloe, Sophie and Rylie; as well as aunts, uncle, and several cousins. She also leaves behind the last love of her life, Bob Bice and his family who quickly became her own and her “besties” Mary Yonally and Patty Thursby. Tami had no children but adopted and raised many fur babies who were spoiled just as much. Always by her side, Izzy and Sophie will miss her.
In addition to her parents, Tami was preceded in death by her husband, Lonnie Shotwell.
Calling hours will be in Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home and Crematory at New Philadelphia on Friday, March 20, 2026 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Saturday, March 21, 2026 beginning at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow in Evergreen Burial Park at New Philadelphia. A fellowship meal will be served following the interment.
Memorial contributions in Tami’s honor may be directed to an animal shelter of choice.
*** Lovingly written by family
Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory
116 Second Street NE, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663
www.geibfuneral.com
Geib Funeral Service
5600 North Wooster Avenue, Dover, Ohio 44622
Geib Pet Crematory
5600 North Wooster Avenue, Dover, Ohio 44622
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