MOUNT VERNON -- Travis Howard Shaw, 29, formerly of Carbondale, died Feb. 4, 2011, at his home. Travis was born Oct. 22, 1981, in Carbondale to Shelia (Rathert) Shaw and Ronald Shaw. Travis was a free spirit who enjoyed music, writing, poetry, short stories and working with his hands. Travis never knew a stranger. Everyone who knew him loved him, laughed with him and was fascinated by his unique qualities and ability to be a compassionate and loving young man. As Travis travels into peace and open arms, he leaves behind his brother, Lance; and sister-in-law, Mandi Shaw; and his little nephew whom he adored, Harley Cooper Shaw of Carbondale. His mother, Shelia Shaw and husband, Paul Johnson, of Mount Vernon, Ind.; grandmother, Barbara Austin and her husband, Marvin Austin, of Mount Vernon; his uncle, Kevin Rathert of Carbondale; and two wonderful cousins, Bardot Rathert and Roman Rathert of Carbondale. Travis waited for wings and now he is free to fly to a happier place, where his maternal grandfather Harley Dean Rathert has been waiting to embrace him with open arms. Until we all meet again shine on like the star you are so bright in the sky! A celebration of Travis will be for family and close friends at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Mount Vernon. It will be Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2011, at the church, 3205 Broadway in Mount Vernon. Visitation will be from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday. There will be a dinner after the service in the church. Published in The Southern Illinoisan on February 19, 2011