Delores (Loni) was born on September 18, 1930 in Norfolk, NE to Dr. Robert Loerke and Florence Loerke (nee Daniels). Her father passed one week before she turned four years of age, of cancer. Her mother later married John Ropers who was a wonderful stepfather and influence in her life. They moved to Madison, then Milwaukee where she graduated from West Division High School in 1948.

She attended the State Teachers College (now UWM) for one year then married Ronald Shawver on September 12, 1949. They had three children, Nancie, Richard and John. She taught piano and organ in Milwaukee. Later she worked at the Milwaukee County Mental Health Center in the music therapy department. She returned to college (MATC), earning her license as a registered respiratory therapist. She spent most of her career at Northwest General Hospital as a supervisor in the department. Later she became the patient representative for the hospital until her retirement. Loni became involved in making porcelain dolls and china painting. Her specialized sewing earned many awards. Besides enjoying her six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, she became a volunteer grandmother at the Juvenile Delinquent Center at the Portage County Jail.

Loni quietly departed this life on Thursday, September 16th at the age of 90 at Whispering Pines in Plover. She was preceded in death by her parents, two sons, two grandsons and her long-time friend Kathy Shallock. She was a member of the Amherst United Methodist Church. She is survived by her daughter Nancie Kiddoo, daughter-in-law Jane Shawver and her longtime friend, Todd Fonstad.

Her life was full, active and busy. She took great pleasure in her home, yard and her strong independence.

Services for her celebration of life will be held on Sunday, October 3rd at 2 p.m. at the Amherst United Methodist Church. Fellowship time and light refreshments will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations in her memory may be made to the Amherst United Methodist Church. To make delivery arrangements, florists please contact Todd Fonstad at (715) 824-6777 (the church office is closed due to Covid).