Tara Faith Maher was born on July 12, 1993 in Red Oak, Iowa the daughter of Steven M. and Lori D. (Opal) Maher. Tara entered into the arms of the Lord on July 14, 2010 in Omaha, Nebraska.
Tara was born and raised in the community of Essex. She was currently looking forward to beginning her Senior year at Essex High School. While attending high school Tara was active in volleyball, basketball, track, and softball, and was also a member of the National Honor Society. Family and friends were all very special to Tara and she cherished the times that she spent with them. Tara enjoyed her part-time job at Fareway and the many friendships that she made through her work.
She was preceded in death by her grandfathers Kenny Maher and Larry Opal and cousin Jarrod Maher.
Those left to honor her memory include her father Steve Maher of Essex; mother Lori Racine and husband Denny of Essex; brothers Adam Maher and fiance Keisha Pedersen of New Market, Brett Maher and Tony Racine both of Essex; step-siblings John Racine of Iowa City and Jesselyn Racine of Cherokee; grandparents Lois Maher of Shenandoah and Shirley and Everette Dugdale of Essex;great-grandmother Leona Mathews of Council Bluffs; aunts and uncles Pat and Judy Williams, Ron and Debbie Biggers, Kevin and Jacque Maher, Mason and Susan Opal, and Joe and Michelle Davis; special friends Amy and Ian Isaacson; numerous cousins and many friends.
Brett Christensen's Family wrote on Jul 19, 2010:
"On behalf of Brett & all of his family, we just want you to know that our hearts are breaking for you at this time! We've just recently lost someone w/i our own family and the heartache resurfaces as we know of others who are walking where we so recently walked. Praying that God will wrap you up in His loving arms & bring you the comfort only He can bring at a time like this! Brett thinks so highly of Adam & Keisha & we thank God for the friendship they have found in each other, especially as these tough times come. Take care & God bless...Kelley, Bryce, Brett & Brenna Christensen"
christy wrote on Jul 18, 2010:
"YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYER...IAM SORRY FOR YOU LOSS...I DIDNT KNOW HER BUT FROM WHAT I HEAR SHE WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON AND A GREAT FREIND..SHE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY PEOPLE..IF THERE IS ANYTHING I CAN DO FOR YOUR FAMILY PLEASE LET ME KNOW...MY EMAIL ADDRESS IS ON HERE
CHRISTY STUDEY "
Pam McGargill wrote on Jul 18, 2010:
"I am shocked and saddened to hear of Tara's accident. I will keep you all in my prayers."
susie schleip wrote on Jul 17, 2010:
"my family and i express our sympathy to the maher family at this difficult time and will keep you in our prayers ,"
Bruce & Misty Huff and Family wrote on Jul 17, 2010:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you on this day. May the Lord God give you all peace and strength in the days ahead, that is our prayer for your family."
Stacey & Tori Moreland wrote on Jul 17, 2010:
"We know you do not know us but we wanted to let you know our hearts and prayers are going out for your family right now. We only knew Tara from school sports and Tori was taking speed and quickness with Tara in Shenandoah this summer. She was becoming a friend of Tara and Annie's. We are so sorry for your loss and wanted to let you know we think of Tara and her family daily."
Robert and Robin Lynn and Family wrote on Jul 17, 2010:
"Steve and Lori and Families,
We are so sorry about your Loss. Tara was always so helpful and sweet in the Store and determined in her sports. She will be missed Greatly. Obviously God has a bigger plan for Tara. Our most heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out for you ALL. God Bless
Bob and Robin(Anderson)Lynn, Crane, Casa,
Chealsee and Clair "
Melissa Whitcomb wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"I am so sorry for your loss. I know there are no words that can express the ache you must have in your heart. Please know that I am thinking of you & praying for you & your family.
Missy McComb"
Julie Grigg & Todd Anderson wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"We are so sorry for your loss. You and your families are in our thoughts and prayers"
Chelsey Christensen wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"I did not know Tara personally, but I have known who she was for years through sports. My deepest sympathy goes out to the family and friends. I am very sorry. I pray you can find comfort through the Lord."
Becky Efta wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"I had the extreme honor of meeting and getting to know Tara when she was such a young lady at the Essex Child Care Center. It has been my plessure to see her blossom and grow into the young lady she is. I am truely saddened by your loss. Please know you are all in my prayers and I send my love. "
Laura Thornburg wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"You are in my thoughts & prayers during this difficult time. May you find comfort in your memories & each other."
Randy Fundermann Family wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"When your heart is empty, filling it with happy memories can help you through the dark hours. Tara blessed all of us with special memories. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you."
Cheryl Kier wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"You are all in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this time of loss. "
Tim and Kim Hill wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"During this difficult time, there are no words to express how very deeply sorry we are for your loss. Your family will remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Tim and Kim Hill"
J. Browning wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"Tara was an amazing athlete and always gave 100%. She was a great example and well respected. She will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.
Coach J. Browning and Stanton Volleyball Team"
Gary & Anne Christensen wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"Our deepest sympathies to the family, friends and community of Essex at this very tragic loss to you all. Our daughter Chelsey played against Tara for years at Nishna Valley and East Mills. We never understand why God takes the young ones, but someday it will all make sense. You are in our thoughts and prayers."
Kay Schaefer wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"It's very hard to make sense of a tragedy like this. I wish I had some magic words that would help, but some tears and time are the only way I know of to heal. Tara will always be young and she will always be beautiful. She was one of a kind and always had that big smile on her face. I will miss seeing her bounce down the halls of EHS. Rest in peace, Tara. You will be missed.
Kay Schaefer"
Pearl Madden wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Tara. Peace be with you all!"
Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"Thinking of you"
Cory & Shelly (Williams) Van Dyke wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. "
Rachel norton wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"Maher/Racine families, I send my deepest condolences to you. I knew Tara through various sporting events and even hung out with her a few times in the last few months. What a great personality she had. She will be greatly missed but she is always here in our hearts.
God Bless you all,
-Rachel Norton"
Gary & Jan Taylor wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"We are thinking and praying for you at this very difficult time. May God bless you with strength and comfort. "
Dayna wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"I am so extremely sorry for your loss. I know that no words or actions can help ease your pain but my family and I will be praying for all of you. I know that Tony will be that special reminder for you that she is always close by. Lots of love to you all. Dayna Dickerson and family"
shannon athen wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"Lori,
I just want you to know that I watched Tara play volleyball for the past several years and have enjoyed watching her play. She always showed such school spirit and great sportsmanship. She was a great kid and will be greatly missed! Please know that my prayers and thoughts are with you.
Sincerely,
Shannon Sims Athen"
IKE wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"Lori
The night we got the call on Tara passing I was completely devastated and grieved for all you have lost. I would look at Tara and see you all over again, her spirit to succeed and all her strength. I am so thankful my son had the opportunity to know her as well and he really did cherish their relationship, albeit under the strangest of circumstances.
I know as a parent that the loss of a child is the single most devastating thing that could happen and our worst fear in life. It can destroy you and all left behind that need you if you let it. I know Tara and her strong spirit and she would never want you to give up and knows you now have to be the rock for Adam and Brett as well as your children shared with Denny. You were a symbol of strength that Tara emulated and admired. She never gave up nor will she accept you, her hero, her mom, to do so.
Lord knows you have been through so much that you never deserved nor do I understand. I know God said he never would allow anyone more than they had the capacity to handle. I guess our strength can be a curse but so many surround us that have not this strength who depend on us and I do feel it is Godâ??s will that he gave you this to care for them.
I truly believe that our life on earth is but a blink in everlasting life. We hold it so valuable from our human perspective but to God and all in his kingdom it is the devilâ??s playground and nothing more for what God has awaiting us in his kingdom is so beautiful, pure, loving for eternal ever after as he desired from the start of creation. Tara is there and experiencing this unimaginable beauty and peace right now and will await you with open arms one day.
Mourn your loss in this life of losing one so precious and dear for this is expected as with all the anger, hatred, guilt of should of, could of etc but use the strength GOD gave you to persevere and honor Taraâ??s memory by taking care of those so dear to her in the end. Tara awaits you one day when the time is right but you can never lose your faith so stay strong.
Remember, those past and present love you and will always be there for you year after year and many more will be praying for you as I will. I never in my wildest thoughts and dreams would have ever thought we would experience something so devastating in our lifetime and it so hurts me to see you go through this in every way.
Stay strong; for Tara would expect nothing less from you.
IKE
"
A.J. and Toni Smith wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"We are very sorry for Tara's passing. She was definitely taken way too early in life. She was a very talented young lady. She will be missed by many people. Again, we are very sorry for your loss."
Thomas Carney Jr wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"Steve i am very sorry to hear of your loss. my sympathy goes out to you and your family. I know this is a diffecult time for you but i want you to know that my family and i are here for you if there is anything we can do or even if you just need to talk im here! Tom Carney cell number 402-990-0388 "
Robert & Kathy (Engstrand) Oetken wrote on Jul 16, 2010:
"Dennis & wife:
I can't say that I have known you in recent years as we have moved to Arizona but I worked at Miller-Tomlinson for years and years so knew you and your extended family all through them. I sympathize with you all on the loss of your daughter--could not imagine the pain. Know that we think of you at this time and hope that faith and family support carries you through this terrible time of trial. Just know that even the ones that aren't close remember and acknowledge the pain of your loss. Keep the faith and love alive! "
Kelso Family wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"I'm sure Tara is the brightest, shinnest star in heaven. We will remember her sparkle. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you.
God Bless"
Decuir Family wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"I want to express our deepest and most heart felt sympathy for your loss."
Chris & Vicki Maher and Clayton Johnson wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"We are so sorry - God Bless you all!
Chris & Vicki Maher and Clayton Johnson"
Tommy and Judy Graham wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Our hearts go out to all of Tara's family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you through this difficult time. Our deepest sympathy to all of you.
Tommy and Judy Graham"
Denise Green wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Thoughts and prayers from the South Page School. "
Regina Bennett wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Steve and family I send you my deepest symphathys I am so sorry for your lost of Tara she will be in our thoughts and prayers always and if you or the boys need anything please feel free to call 246 5639 or 2468334 I know its a very difficult time and will be for a very long time as my brother lost a son too. sincerely Regina Bennett"
Diann wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Lori
You are in my thoughts and prayers - Call if you need ANYTHING, anytime
Diann"
Donnie Sears wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"It is with sincere sorrow that I type this message to you. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. I have been the football and track coach in Sidney for many years, and have enjoyed watching all athletes in the area. Although I didn't personally know Tara, it was fun to watch her compete. You could just tell that she had that "something special" that you can't teach or coach. She was a winner. I have a daughter entering the 7th grade (Shea-Lynn) and she was in the same speed/acceleration group as Tara. She was beginning to get to know her, and it was very hard for her to hear the tragic news. She wanted to tell your family that she thought Tara was very nice and was a leader. On behalf of my family, and the Sidney student body, I wish you strength as you progress through your loss.
Sincerely
Coach Donnie Sears
Sidney"
Stacy Graham wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you during this difficult time. The loss of a child is something no parent should ever have to experience. Hold tight to eachother and find strength in eachother. Tara will live on in the hearts and memories of the countless people that were fortunate enough to know her in her brief stay on this Earth. Know that she is somewhere smiling down on you and keeping watch over all of those that loved her. God bless you. Tara may be gone, but she will never be forgotten"
Felicia Monson wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Tara and I had are disagreements but in the end we were friends.. Sorry isnt enough to say after losing someone so precious without much goodbye.. I am thinking of you."
Mike Drake wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"I am very sorry to hear of your loss."
Michael De Anda and Family wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May god comfort you in this tragic loss.."
Lisa Ross wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Tara was one of a kind. She will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your famalies."
The Ratliff family wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time."
Betty Franks wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Tara was a beautiful and funny girl. No one understands why young people have to die but I know that she is in heaven with all the angels. God wanted her more than we did. Thinking of her family at this time and knowing that I will remember Tara every day of my life."
Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Tara will be greatly missed by family, friends and classmates. Our prayers are with you! Rest in peace Tara!"
Stephanie Wilson Johnson wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Lori, Steve and family,
We are all so very sorry for your loss of your beautiful Tara! My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you all! My son Mitchell was at her birthday party Monday night. He talks very fondly of Tara, she will be greatly missed by all her peers!
May happy memories of your daughter bring you comfort and peace.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love,
Stephanie and family"
Kunze wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"We are very sorry for your loss, and your family is in our hearts and prayers."
Becky (Mattice) Hogue wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"My family and I are so sorry for your loss. Your family will be in our prayers."
Judy (Collett) Abler wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Dear Lori and Family,
I am so very sorry to hear of Tara's accident.
I can only imagine your pain of grief and sorrow. I know words must seem empty at this time, but know that I pray for strength and guidance for you and your family to get thru this nightmare.
I have not seen you for a very long time, but I will never forget you as a child and young lady growing up and spending time at our house with Terri.
It is sad that it takes a tragedy to make contact with someone, but know that you are and will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
With deepest sympathy.
Judy (Collett) Abler"
Fremont & Mills Clerk's Office wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Lori and family,
Words can't express our heartfelt sympathies to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
From Marsha, Mindy, Robin, Hazel, and Kim "
Wendy Gardner wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Dear Lori, Brett, Adam, Anthiny and Steve I am so very sorry for your loss. Tara was an outstanding young lady. She was so proud to be a Trojanette. She always made time to talk to me and my kids no matter where we were. SHe was also an extraordinary athlete who played with intensity and passion. Tara had an awesome smile that would make you smile. OUr conversations were always about volleyball and family, things we both cared about very much. Our prayers and hugs go out to each of you at this very difficuly time. Wendy, Chris, Blu and Beau- "
Kathy Salthun wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"My sincere condolences to Tara's entire family. I didn't know her, but got to watch her in action on the basketball court when I was in town to see my son, Scott and always enjoyed her spunky personality on the court. My prayers are with you and the entire community of Essex. "
Craig and Kerri Younggren wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Steve and Lori,
We cannot even begin to tell you how sorry we are to hear about Tara. Our hearts are so heavy for you. Please know we send our love and prayers and will continue to pray for your families. Love and Support, Kerri and Craig Younggren"
Kathy Larson wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"We are so sorry for your loss. From what my boys have said, Tara was one of the most Loved girls in the world and will be missed terribly!!"
Judy Foutch wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"You will be greatly missed. You were an outstanding young lady. Love you lots! I am thinking of all of you during your grieving time. Prayers are being sent each and every day. "
Clark Green wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Your entire family has my deepest sympathy. The loss of a sibling or child is so much harder than that of an elderly relative. I will always have thoughts of Tara in my heart."
Maryalice Woods wrote on Jul 15, 2010:
"Lori, my heart aches for you and your family during this tragic time. I am so sorry for you loss."
Tina wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"she will be missed alot and she was a great volleyball player but she will look down on all of use and watch over us alot. It sad but i know with my heart that she look down t use right"
Kim Leininger wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Words cannot express our sympathy for your pain and loss. I cannot even imagine...but I do believe that Tara is in good hands, that she will never be forgotten, and I pray for your healing,comfort and peace. We would do anything we can to help...if there is ANYTHING we can do, please let us know. We are so very, very sorry. There are just no earthly answers for why things like this happen, but I hope you can trust that God is holding Tara in his arms and I pray with all my heart that He will comfort you."
Janine, Zach, Alex and Elise Dailey wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
Peace be with you."
Shane Dukes and Megan Smith wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers will keep coming your way.
Shane Dukes and Megan Smith"
Shirley (Ford) Trumbly wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Our deepest condolences to Tara's family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. While we did not know Tara personally, we know her Aunt Judy and Uncle Pat. May God Bless each and every one of you at this difficult time.
Bob and Shirley Trumbly
Paola, KS"
Mindi York wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"My heart is deeply sadden for you loss. I cannot even image the pain you must be feeling. I just want you all to know that she will be missed by many and that you are all in my thoughts a prayers."
Bonny Williams wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"We were so saddened to hear of Tara's accident & passing. We remember her when Meg was in school at South Page & competed in sports activities. Please know that your family is in our thoughts & prayers at this most difficult time. May the Lord bless you & guide you as you try to move forward. Chuck, Bonny, Meg & Zane Williams"
Charlene and Lloyd Carter, Pam and Matt McLaren wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. Words cannot express how sorry we are. "
Lisa Carlson wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Dear Lori & family,
I just want you to know that you have been in our thoughts and prayers. I know that there is not anything I can say, but if you need anything, give me a call. My cell # is 712-370-4473.
We love you, Lisa & Terry"
Vicki Graham wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"So sorry for your loss Sending prayers to Taras Faily and friends"
Misty Otte wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time. Tara will be greatly missed! "
Kent Owens and family wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Maher Family,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at the loss of your loved one. May God be with you ."
Roxanne (Anderson) May wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"My deepest sympathy to Steve and all the Maher family. Such a tragic loss!! You are all in my thoughts and prayers."
Dennis and Teresa Perry wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Please know that all of your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Tara was outstanding in so many ways. We know how proud you all were of her for all of her accomplishments during her 17 years. She will truly be missed by everyone in the Essex community. She will always be a shining example of "Trojanette Pride"."
Jeff & Tara Menke wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. "
Molly Nicholas wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Words won't do justice to try to take away the pain you all are feeling. Please know that so many of us are thinking and praying for you and Tara. It doesn't seem fair for someone so young, with so much yet to offer, to be taken away so suddenly. Tara's impact on everyone she met will never be forgotten. She was truly one of the good ones."
Karissa wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"I knew Tara through Jr. High sports. I am very sorry for your loss."
Lori Johnson wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"There are no words to express how sorry I am to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. "
James,Kala and Jayde Duysen wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"We can not express the sadness we feel for all of Tara's family. Our prayers continue to be with all of you. Tara Faith will always be a special person in our hearts. James,Kala and Jayde Duysen"
Paula Kuonen wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Steve and family - so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."
Jamie Jones wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"iam sorry for your loss Steve only time will heal the pain you feel right now.it doesnt make it any easier but time heals all pain may god give you strenth and peace "
Tom & Sue Spears wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Lori and family, we are so sorry about Tara. The loss of a child is so hard. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Tom & Sue Spears"
Rod & Diane Carpenter wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during those most difficult time. May God comfort you."
Bethany Bray wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"I pray for the strength for you guys to get through this now and the days to come. I know its going to be very hard after the funeral and people go home. Remember you are loved and have many friends and family that are here for you. God will get you through this. My deepest sympathy, Bethany Bray"
Dee Ossian wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Words cannot express how deeply sadden we are about your loss. Tara was a bright star that lit up the world around her."
sherry Hambsch wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"My sincere sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. May God comfort and help you through the days ahead. Sherry Hambsch"
Matt wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"I am so sorry for your loss."
Karen Stanbrough wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"I am so sorry Lori, and Steve and families. Tara was an amazing young lady. I remember her bright smile, and those beautiful eyes when she would check out my groceries at Fareway. Her and Kylie became friends through working together. Kylie thought so much of her. Spencer enjoyed working with Tara as well. She will be missed by so many, she touched everyone that she came in contact with lifes."
Chuck & Julie O'Barsky wrote on Jul 14, 2010:
"Steve,
Our prayers our with you words cannot express our sympathy for your loss. God Bless."