Susan VanOverberg Benhart Shaffer, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully at her home on July 3, 2026, at the age of 76. Born on January 29, 1950, in Moline, IL, Susan was the daughter of Albert Earl VanOverberg and Elsie Serlet. Her childhood was spent in Salida, Colorado until her family returned to Moline. She graduated from Moline High School in 1968. Her life was a testament to kindness, resilience, and unwavering faith.

Susan's life was blessed with love and family. She married her first husband, Roger Benhart, on April 18, 1970. Their three sons, David, Scott, and Matthew, remember her as a nurturing and devoted mother who instilled in them the values of compassion and integrity. Susan and Roger's marriage of 25 years ended in 1995.

Susan found love again and in 2007 married Daniel Shaffer. Their time together was filled with shared laughter, adventures through travel, and the comfort of companionship until his passing in 2019. Susan's ability to love deeply and embrace life with an open heart was a testament to her indomitable spirit.

A woman of deep faith, Susan was actively involved in her church communities, both at St. Malachy's Catholic Church in Geneseo and Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Moline. Her faith was not only a guiding light in her life but a beacon of hope she shared with others. Continued talks during outreach programs became a staple of hers, primarily focusing on the power of prayer.

Susan found immense joy in quilting, a hobby that allowed her to create beautiful, intricate pieces filled with love and care. She was a lifelong learner gaining as much knowledge as possible through books, her travels, and programs. Those who knew her were touched by her generosity of spirit and genuine kindness, qualities that enriched the lives of everyone around her.

Susan's legacy is carried on by her sons, David Benhart; Scott Benhart and his wife, Suzanne; and Matthew Benhart and his wife, Melissa. She leaves behind five cherished grandchildren: Alynna, Rowan, Angela, Michelle, and Evelyn, who were the lights of her life and her greatest pride.

Susan is proceeded in death by her parents and sister, Sherry Beldin.  She is survived by siblings Kathy (Lee) Guldenphennig, John VanOverberg, and Shelley (Scott) VanOverberg. 

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a life well-lived and a soul deeply loved during a visitation service on Thursday, July 16th, 2026, from 4:00-6:00pm at Wendt Funeral Home, located at 1811 15th Street Place in Moline, IL. A funeral Mass to honor and celebrate Susan's life will be held on Friday, July 17th, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, located at 1608 13th Street, Moline, IL.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Susan's memory to the Hospice Foundation of America.

Family and friends are welcome to share memories and condolences on her memory page at www.wendtfuneralhome.com.