OWLS HEAD — Shelby L. Pare, 61, died peacefully on March 28, 2017, in her new dream home with her loving husband, niece and nephews at her side.

Born in Rockland on Nov. 9, 1955, she was the daughter of Richard and Margaret Packard Ilvonen. Educated locally, Shelby was a 1974 graduate of Rockland District High School. Following high school Shelby worked for several local companies, including Rockland I.G.A. and Van Baalens, before branching out on her own. Most recently Shelby has worked as the bookkeeper for Brass Compass, Archers on the Pier, Performance Paving and J.K. Kalloch.

In June of 1980 Shelby married the love of her life, Roger Pare. Together they enjoyed 37 years of marriage. They enjoyed spending time at their camp on Swan Lake, where Shelby caught a trophy salmon that she proudly displayed on the wall.

Although she was always a hard worker, Shelby knew how to relax and have fun. Her number one priority in life was her family. She loved nothing more than to have a large group of family and friends around, hosting gatherings and was always ready to throw another burger on the grill for whomever stopped by. Her door was always open and she made everyone feel welcome. Shelby's house was the place to be.

Shelby was always thinking of others before herself. Even at the end of her illness, she participated in the Devon Stewart Charity Bike Run, riding with her oxygen on. She had an indomitable spirit and nothing held her back. She had a great sense of humor with an infectious laugh and a smile that could light up a room.

She had a special place in her heart for her “fur babies,” often inviting her niece's dog over for play dates and snuggles. Shelby was one-of-a-kind, and she will be sadly missed by all who loved her.

Predeceased by her mother, Margaret Ilvonen; and her sister-in-law, Darla Ilvonen, Shelby is survived by her husband, Roger of Owls Head; her brother, Uno Ilvonen of Owls Head; a step-brother, Charles Knight and his wife, Cathy, of Birmingham, Ala.; her sister, Tracey Richardson and her husband, Kevin, of Camden; her stepdaughter, Melissa Monroe and her son, Ben Monroe; her stepson, Jason Pare; her nieces and nephews, Casey Bass, Chris Knight, Wyatt Berry, Uno Jake Ilvonen and his wife, Melanie, Kalli Ilvonen and Teel Ilvonen; and her great-nieces and great-nephews, Connor Bass, Eleanor Knight, Beatrice Knight and Taavi Ilvonen. Shelby's family is especially grateful for the countless hours of care and devotion that she received from Heidi Stevens in the last few months.

Family and friends are invited to visit Monday, May 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St. in Rockland, where a celebration of her life will be held Tuesday, May 9, at 1 p.m. The Rev. Rick Catalano will officiate. Interment will be private.