Friends and family gathered at Innisfail Alliance Church Saturday to remember Victoria Shachtay, the 23-year-old woman killed Nov. 25 after opening a package at her house that was triggered to explode.
An autopsy last Monday determined her death was targeted, but at this time police are not releasing details of how that has been determined in order to protect the integrity of the investigation.
“There’s still so much pain, so many questions, hurt and anger,” said Pastor Andrew Rilling, who officiated at the memorial service attended by about 250 people Saturday afternoon.
Shachtay’s daughter, Destiny, part of the family procession, carried a large brown teddy bear. Another family member carried a framed photo of Destiny’s mother.
Born in Didsbury, Shachtay had been living in Innisfail when she passed away. She was the youngest of five siblings: Chris, Trevor, Derek and Sarah. Her mother, Lou, passed away last year. Her stepfather Rick Bercier remains in Innisfail and father Victor Shachtay, in Didsbury.
Marnie Rilling, who led the eulogy, said she became close with Shachtay about seven years ago, after a car accident that broke her neck.
“… She had a more abundant and happy life in her chair than other people ever find,” said Rilling, who described Vicky as determined, a dear friend, devoted mother and faithful parishioner who was always seen with a Tim Hortons cup hanging “precariously” by her wheelchair every Sunday at church.
“Baby Ella fussed all the time,” said Rilling, remembering when Shachtay helped out during a Vacation Bible School. “(She) put her on her lap and motored her up and down all morning. Pretty soon everyone wanted a ride. She was in her glory,” said Rilling, eliciting laughs from the congregation.
Rilling read memories written by Shachtay’s family members. Her father described her as a fighter and said Destiny got her name “because that’s what she was,” turning Shachtay’s life around after her accident.
Brother Chris said his baby sister left this world far too soon and remembered her willful and independent spirit that was evident when she was still three and four years old, climbing to the top of a grain elevator in Didsbury.
“…(Becoming) paralyzed was her greatest challenge; Destiny was her salvation. She rebounded and moved forward.”
Her brother Trevor said she was like their mother Lou, with a heart that called out to her family.
“I was here decorating the tree when I heard (what happened),” said Rilling.
“… I was shocked but knew she had been reunited with her mom. I picture her running and dancing in heaven. We love you.”
Friends and some family members wore red hoodies which read “Free to dance” a quote from a favourite song at church, explained Pastor Dave Wiebe, who also said she was known to wear red.
A trust fund has been set up at the Royal Bank “In Trust for the Daughter of Vicky Shachtay” (transit number 06829). Shachtay’s daughter remains in care of family members.
As well a silent auction, set for Dec. 16 at the Fox and Hound, will donate half of the proceeds to the memorial fund. Anyone wishing to donate is asked to call 405-506-6468.
