William Shaver

    William “Billy” Shaver, 69, Opportunity Village, Clear Lake, died Monday, Jan. 9, 2012 at Oakwood Care Center, Clear Lake.  A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 18, at the Kinney Lindstrom Center, Opportunity Village, 1200 N. 9th St. W., Clear Lake, with Pastor Rich Murray officiating.  A graveside service was held Thursday, Jan. 12, at Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City, Iowa.  Memorials may be given to Opportunity Village or Oakwood Care Center in his name.

    Billy was born Aug. 21, 1942 in Mason City, the son of Glenn and Marianne (Friend) Shaver.  Billy was born with major disabilities that couldn’t be fully identified in 1942.  He was raised primarily with his mother until the age of five, as his father was gone to WWII.  He was also the step-son of Jack Phalen. His grandparents were Everett and Rea Friend and William and Anna (Scales) Shaver. 
    Billy lived through many challenges growing up in Mason City.  He attended Hoover Elementary School. He then moved to Woodward State Home for a while. As a teenager he moved back to Mason City, living at Rest Haven Nursing Home and Good Shepherd Care Center. He eventually moved to Clear Lake on June 22, 1973 with the founding of Handicap Village, now known as Opportunity Village.  He lived most recently in Four Seasons Cottage until he move to Oakwood Care Center on March 12, 2007.  He continued to work at Opportunity Village until May 2011.
    Billy had many interests and hobbies, especially the Minnesota Twins. He attended numerous games throughout the years.  He loved music, sang in the Village choir and Swing choir and performed at many places for years.  His favorite activities included the Lions BBQ and Fourth of July parade. His favorite drink was a cappuccino, favorite food was fried chicken, favorite pie was banana cream, favorite Bible verse: John 3:16.      He attended Sunnyside Camp for many years. Billy was elected “Mayor” of Opportunity Village for three terms, in the 80’s, 90’s and 1999-2000. He attended St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Evangelical Free Church and Zion Lutheran Church, all in Clear Lake.  Billy was a wonderful example of joyful spirituality.  He was true to himself and his “family of friends.” He led by example by being resident of the month, an activist for what he believed, and sporting a smile you had to love.
    Billy is survived by his friends and family at Opportunity Village and Oakwood Care Center.  He is also survived by his aunt, Shirley Sharp, Mason City and several cousins.
    Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of arrangements.