The world has lost a loving and giving soul. Kendra Lyn Vantuyl-Escalante passed away peacefully at her home in the early hours of July 14th, 2025. Kendra was born in Lawrence, KS, on March 1st, 1995, to Kristen Vantuyl (Lawrence, KS) and Rick Sheley (St. George, Utah). She was the first grandchild of Barbara Vantuyl (Lawrence, KS) and the first great-grandchild of Evelyn Burk (deceased). She spent her early years under the same roof with three generations of women, making her the fourth generation.
Kendra embraced one of her most cherished roles when she became a big sister, first in 2004, when Kristin and Martin Madorin (Cedar, KS) welcomed Kamdin Madorin (Los Angeles, CA), and again in 2007 with the birth of Makayla Madorin (Lawrence, KS). In 2013, she graduated from Lawrence High School and moved to St. George, Utah, to study nursing at Dixie State University with the support of her father Rick. She was an accomplished cello player, earning a seat in the Dixie State Symphony Orchestra.
She moved back to Kansas and soon met her husband, Christopher Escalante. Christopher took her on their first date on February 29th, 2020, on the eve of her birthday. The love and romance were instantaneous, and they married on July 14th, 2020. Kendra was a loving and devoted wife. Her hobbies included creating art projects, playing music, and making a life full of love with Christopher and her family. She was dedicated to her work as a CNA. An incredible caregiver, she worked at Bella Terra in Utah, Pioneer Ridge in Lawrence, KS, and Brewster Place in Topeka, KS.
Chronic illness sadly plagued her final years. She fought valiantly until the very end. Her life, though far too short, will continue to inspire and comfort all who were blessed to know her.
Kendra is survived by her half-siblings: Andrea Philips, Craig Sheley, Chelsea Roth, Abigail Sheley, Kamdin Madorin, Makayla Madorin, and Kelby Sheley. She had two stepdaughters, Jocelyn and Lily Escalante, and is also survived by her father- and mother-in-law, Robert and Brenda Escalante (Topeka, KS).
Other surviving family includes her great-uncles Randy and Scott (Kansas City, MO), her great-uncle Mike Vantuyl (Topeka, KS), her great-aunt Veda Vantuyl (Plano, TX), her aunt Janice Zishka (Liberty, MO), her uncle Danny Vantuyl (Lawrence, KS), and her cousins Tanner, Cali, Jace, and Robbie. Her surviving grandparents are Barbara Vantuyl, and Edgar and Joan Marie Sheley of Corning, KS.
She was preceded in death by her great-grandmother Evelyn Burk, grandfather Daniel Vantuyl, her aunt Lori Vantuyl, and her aunt Pam Aversano.
Rumsey-Yost will host a visitation on Friday, August 1, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:00 PM, with the memorial service on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 10:30 AM.
Livestream services at https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTc1Mzk3Nzg1MTM3NDA2OSZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==
Kendra and I first met in geometry in the 9th grade. We were attached at the hip for a couple of years. She was foundational to my understanding of friendship. She was the rare sort of person to ask how someone is doing, and be earnestly invested in the answer. She just radiated care. I thought we would pick up where we left off one day after lives well lived. Kendra always wanted a family, and I am so happy that dream was realized for her. My condolences to all who feel the enormity of this loss. She will be remembered well, and she is loved.
Kendra and I grew up in the country near each other, and shared a love of playing guitar hero. I have fond memories of hanging out with her, her mom and her sweet siblings. As happens when we grow up, we lost touch. But she was a sweet soul and I’m so sorry to hear of her illness and passing. Thinking of the family!
Kendra was a dear friend of mine in high school. Whether we were spending time at each other’s homes playing games, dancing at school events, playing mud volleyball, or simply sharing lunch together, she was always a joy to be around. Her warmth and spirit left a lasting impression, and she will be deeply missed.
I only knew Knedra briefly when we worked at Pioneer Ridge together, but she was such a kind and friendly soul! She really lit the entire building up with positivity when she came in and had a wonderful soothing effect on our patients. She was an amazing caretaker, and an easy going person who always felt welcoming to talk to. Definitely made our job together a pleasant experience. My condolences to the family and friends, may her memory be a blessing!
So very sorry for your loss. Lori sure loved her as all the family did. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. 💔🙏🏻
I’m so very sorry for your loss. I didn’t know Kendra personally, but I’ve known Chris my whole life, and I’ve seen how much he treasures those close to him. I can only imagine how deeply Kendra was loved. My thoughts are with Chris and the entire family during this difficult time.
My thoughts n prayers r with you Chris n family, Kendra was a very kind person n she will be missed
Kendra was one of the sweetest, kindest and most loving people I’ve had the pleasure to know. Her love for Chris and all of her family shown all around her. The love she shared with family and friends will live on in their hearts forever. Happy trails, sweet girl.
was so sad to hear about kendra . our prayers are with you at this time . hugs and love Gollhofers Leila and Lloyd
Sending you strength to get through this difficult time. May the God of all comfort be with all during this difficult time.
Our sincere sympathy and prayers in your loss. May God hold you close and let light perpetual shine upon her.
You were such a bright spot in the world, Kendra. You will be very dearly missed.
Kendra was so loved and will be missed by family and friends.