Ethan (Ava) Schallenkamp

Ethan (Ava) Schallenkamp, age 26, passed away on Friday, August 11th.

Born February 26, 1997 to Gary and Karen (Hahn) Schallenkamp, the third of five children.  They grew up on the family farm in rural Bridgewater and graduated in 2015 from McCook Central High School in Salem, SD.  They were active in football, FFA, 4H and enjoyed participating in school musicals.  They had a keen sense of humor, often boisterous, but also a deep thinker and an unwavering advocate for diversity, equality, and inclusion.

From an early age they showed a remarkable aptitude for technology and after high school attended MSU Mankato and SDSU majoring in computer science.

Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at just three years old, they battled health challenges throughout life.  One of the highlights every year was attending Camp Gilbert, where they felt the support and kinship of other kids living with the same diagnosis and went on to be a camp counselor to help and inspire others.

Despite their many struggles, we are comforted in knowing they believed and trusted in God.  We are grateful for this past year spent with Kari, in whom they found love, happiness and acceptance.  As we remember and honor their memory, we will strive to carry forward their legacy by fostering empathy, providing support, and extending compassion and understanding of people’s differences.

Joining those who have passed before are, Grandpa Miles Hahn and Cousin Kristina Hahn.  Survived by parents, Gary and Karen Schallenkamp, siblings, Brooke, Emily, Allison and Rae, grandparents, Lloyd and Mary Schallenkamp and Darlene Hahn as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Visitation will be from 5-7 pm on Friday, August 18, 2023 with a memorial service at 7 pm at Kinzley Funeral Home in Salem.