Shane Van Pelt

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Shane P. Van Pelt on November 9, 2024. Shane will be deeply missed by all who dearly loved him and those who were impacted by his life; including his daughter Ava Van Pelt, (mother Elizabeth Cohen), Audrey Van Pelt, (mother Sonia Siu), his mother, Elissa McMinn-Bosworth, (Richard), siblings Steven McCrillis, Shelah Coleman,(Travis Sr), Heather Rice, Holly Munoz, Jeremy Kale Van Pelt and John Van Pelt, along with many family members and life long friends who love Shane.

Shane was an avid outdoorsman. He loved rock climbing and viewing nature with an Artist’s eye and spiritual connection. Shane was an accomplished Artist with much recognition over the many years he painted, drew, sculpted and taught others, having been likened to such great Artists as Matisse, Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso. 

Shane was instrumental in the creation of the Arts Crawl scene in Gallup, NM. Shane never abused his Native Indian Ancestry through any form of exploitation in order to further his art and career. Very few people knew he had Native Indian Ancestry as part of his heritage. Shane respected, protected and honored his paternal Grandmother’s Arapaho heritage. 

Shane was eclectic in everything he did. He always gave to others. His heart was full of love, empathy and compassion for others. He always offered his time. Shane saw the wholeness in others who were broken, helping them to realize self love and overcome addictions. He was often referred to as a Pied Piper, a Savior of sorts. He was a wounded Healer. 

With Shane’s passing, we remind others that his life is one to be celebrated in all things he loved; family, friends, art, nature, laughter, a good prank, smiles and good food. 

Shane’s journey does not end here. His end is just the beginning.