From the Mesa Tribune

Shane Cory Figueroa
FIGUEROA, Shane Cory 1983-2008 Our beloved Shane, "Shaner", returned into the loving arms of his Heavenly Father and awaiting family members early Saturday morning. His unexpected death was a result of a car accident while on duty as a police officer with the Phoenix Police Department. Shane started his mortal journey on June 21, 1983 in Mesa Arizona. He was welcomed to this earthly life by his parents, E. Cory and Jerilyn Skousen Figueroa. He was the loving husband of Melisha Pew Figueroa and proud father of three month old Kenzlie Marie, both whom he loved dearly. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and had a firm knowledge that he is a son of God. His mortal life was a testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ and he confidently shared his testimony with everyone. Shane grew up in Mesa, where he participated in sports, camp outs with his scout group, and family outings and activities. He also loved music, and had a natural talent for playing the violin. Above all, he was a friend to everyone. His warm and infectious "dimpled" smile and kind heart captured and influenced many. Upon graduating from Mesa High School, he served a two year mission, sharing his love of the gospel of Jesus Christ in Maracaibo, Venezuela. Upon his return he pursued his life long dream of following in his father's footsteps by joining the Phoenix Police Department. Sadly, he was only allowed to serve and protect the community of Phoenix for three short years. During that time he made many close friends within the police department and the community. He was a true inspiration to all. Shane is survived by his wife, Melisha and daughter, Kenzlie, his parents, Cory and Jerilyn Figueroa, brothers, Austin and Bronson, sister, Kassidi, father and mother-in-law, Wade and Tamara Pew, brothers-in-law, Braden and Aaron, grandparents Lavar and Jeannine Skousen, Ernie and Kayle Figueroa, and many aunts, uncles and cousins that he loved dearly. Shane was blessed to belong to an incredibly committed, supportive and loving extended family. Shane will be sorely missed. He is separated from us for a while, but we know he is doing the work of our Heavenly Father. We know there is a plan that allows families to be together forever. Our family will hold onto this belief until we are together again. A visitation will be held Friday, October 31, 2008 at the Red Mountain Institute, 7126 E. McKellips (just east of Power Road), from 4-7 p.m. Funeral services will be Saturday, November 1, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at the same location. Internment will be at the City of Mesa Cemetery. Meldrum Mortuary is handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made at any branch of M & I Bank in the name of Melisha and Kenzlie Figueroa. Those wishing to share a special memory or influence can email it to rjcuriel@gmail.com . Published in the East Valley Tribune on 10/30/2008