Dr. Kellie Jean Eichel-Shaffer
Dr. Kellie Jean Eichel-Shaffer, age 54 of New Philadelphia, died Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2018, in Oak Pointe Nursing and Rehabilitation at Baltic after an extended illness.
Born in Dover, Kellie was the daughter of Jim and Karen (Green-Pfeiffer) Eichel of New Philadelphia and was a 1983 graduate of New Philadelphia High School, where she had lettered in tennis.
Kellie continued her education at Malone College, earning her bachelor’s in nursing and also was a standout member of the Malone women’s tennis team. After graduation she furthered her education at Case Western Reserve University and graduated Suma Cum Laude with her doctorate in nursing.
During her career, Kellie worked as a neonatal nurse practitioner for both Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus and Summa Health Systems’ Akron City Hospital in Akron.
Known for her love of running, Kellie competed in numerous races over the years, which included the Boston Marathon, New York City Marathon, Chicago Marathon, the Big Sur Marathon and many others. In total she completed 52 marathons and numerous half-marathons and 10k and 5k races.
In addition to her parents, Kellie is survived by her two sons, who were the loves of her life, Samuel J. Shaffer and Benjamin M. Shaffer of Viera, Florida; a sister-in-law, Terri Eichel of Carrollton; a niece and nephew, Gabriel and Joseph Eichel, both of New Philadelphia; and numerous aunts, uncles and close friends. A brother, James R. “Chip” Eichel, preceded her in death.
Kellie is to be cremated through the care of Geib’s Tuscarawas Valley Crematory, and a private family memorial service will be held at a later date.
In keeping with the love and caring that Kellie offered to so many others throughout her life, it is the family’s wish that memorial contributions be made to Community Hospice Truman House, 716 Commercial Ave. SW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.
Those wishing to do so may send the family a personal condolence and light a candle in remembrance of Kellie by visiting the funeral home’s website at www.GeibCares.com.
