Shania "Shokie" Marie Rivera

Shania Marie Rivera, 17 of Summerset, SD (formerly of Grand Island, NE), died Saturday, December 3, 2016 as the result of an automobile accident in Merrick County, Nebraska.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 3:00 P.M. Thursday, December 8, 2016 at St. Mary's Cathedral in Grand Island, Nebraska. Father Scott Harter will be officiating. A Private Inurnment will be held at the Grand Island City Cemetery.

Visitation will be 5-7 P.M. Wednesday, December 7, 2016 at Apfel Funeral Home in Grand Island. Memorials are suggested to the family to be designated at a later date.

Those left to cherish her memory include her parents; brothers, Joe Rivera III, Michael Rivera, and Jaden Rivera, all of Summerset, SD; grandparents; Joe and Dorothy Rivera of Grand Island, Linda Hedges of Fairbury, and Robert and Deb Krichau of Grand Island; niece, Milah Rivera of Grand Island; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her great-grandparents, Angeline and Manuel Rivera; great-aunt, Gracie Ortiz; cousin, Lydia Rivera step-grandfather, Dwayne Hedges; and great-grandmother, Velma Smith.

Shania Marie Rivera beloved daughter of Joe and Candy, was born June 7, 1999 in Grand Island, NE where she attended school until moving to Rapid City, SD and attending her senior year at Stevens High School. Shania celebrated her life with her family and friends in many different ways. She lived life to the fullest; a s*** kicking hillbilly redneck cruising down the dirt roads - fishing, hiking, jumping off waterfalls and challenging her brothers at everything. Daddys little girl, the mirror image of her mom; she could get away with what no one else could. Shania adored her Daddy, and Michael was her best friend. JoeJoe, Michael and Jaden always protected their little Bubbles.

She was beautiful inside and out. She had the most contagious laugh that made you snort right along with her. Her smile was irresistible. Her beautiful eyes shined bright like diamonds. She always knew the right thing to say at the right moment. Her personality was magnetic and all the children loved her. She was loud and boisterous. She had a passion for trucks that showed with her enthusiasm to become a mechanic.

Do not grieve for me, celebrate life to the fullest.

Love you Shokie!