Theresa Anne Shank

Theresa Anne Kemper Shank, 82, of Noblesville, Indiana, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026 surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on June 12, 1943, at Fort Riley, Kansas, Theresa was the daughter of Dorothy and Sydney Kemper. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved sister, Cynthia Kemper.

Theresa's greatest joy in life was her family. At just sixteen years old, she met the love of her life, David E. Shank, through Dave's lifelong friend. Four years later, they were married in Indianapolis, Indiana, beginning a beautiful partnership that would span 62 years. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, service, and love.

She is survived by her devoted husband, David E. Shank; her children, David Shank (Michelle), Dan Shank (Cindy), and Melissa Beadle (Scott); and her cherished grandchildren, Andrew, Evan, Aaron, and Kyle Shank; Cameron (Madyson) and Julia Beadle; and Brandi Lee Huckle. She is also survived by her siblings, Mary Lou (Tim) Wagner and Jim Kemper.

Theresa attended Purdue University for several years before dedicating herself to raising her family. She was a loving stay-at-home mother whose home was always open to others. Her generous heart led her to serve as a foster parent to many infants over the years, welcoming babies in need with unconditional love and care. Family members fondly remember that she was always willing to take in a foster baby, even on Christmas Eve while hosting family celebrations.

In addition to raising her children and caring for foster children, Theresa served as Director of Religious Education at St. Louis de Montfort Catholic Church in Fishers, Indiana. Her strong Catholic faith guided every aspect of her life and remained the foundation upon which she built her family and friendships. She was a faithful member of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church.

Theresa possessed a gentle spirit and a warm heart. She was sweet, compassionate, easygoing, and an attentive listener who made everyone feel valued and welcomed. She cultivated lifelong friendships with a close-knit group affectionately known as the "Therapy Group," whose companionship brought her great joy throughout the years.

Among Theresa's favorite pastimes was playing her beloved baby grand piano, especially when her favorite duet partner, Melissa, or one of her grandchildren joined her on the piano bench. She loved the soothing sound of the ocean and treasured time spent with family and friends on cruise vacations and at their condo in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

As a mother, Theresa created a home where children naturally gathered. When her own children were young, the family backyard became the neighborhood playground, complete with a ball diamond, basketball court, golf course, and go-cart track. It was a reflection of the welcoming, joyful environment she and Dave created for family and friends alike.

Above all else, Theresa will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her devotion to her husband and family, her kindness toward others, and her selfless spirit of service. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched through her love, generosity, and steadfast example of Christian faith.

A combined Funeral Mass celebrating the lives of Theresa Anne Kemper Shank and her sister, Cynthia Kemper, will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church. The date would have marked Theresa's 83rd birthday, making it a particularly meaningful day for family and friends to gather in celebration of her life and faith.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to join in remembrance, prayer, and thanksgiving for two lives well lived.

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 9900 E 191st Street, Noblesville, IN 46060 (https://ologn.org).