Savannah Grace Zehnder
August 4, 2000 ~ November 15, 2020
Savannah Grace Zehnder, 20, Indianapolis, passed away unexpectedly November 15, 2020. Savannah was born August 4, 2000, in Indianapolis, to Shawn and Hollie (Cole) Zehnder, who survive.
Savannah graduated from Harris Academy in 2018. She was employed as a cargo agent for Quantem Aviation at the Indianapolis International Airport. Savannah marched to her own beat and like many, always craved acceptance. She loved Naruto, Rick & Morty, and Pokemon. She also loved sports cars and listening to music. Family was hugely important to Savannah and she was especially fond of the family dog, Hazel. She always looked forward to the next meal out – Texas Roadhouse being one of her favorites. Savannah will be fondly remembered for her beauty, her sense of humor that often included sarcasm, and her sweet and kind manner. She was deeply loved by her family.
Survivors include her loving parents, Shawn and Hollie; sisters, Cassidy and Carlie Zehnder; paternal grandmother, Rita Zehnder; maternal grandmother, Teresa (Joe) Helton; and a loving extended family.
Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life remembering the life of Savannah Grace Zehnder on Saturday, November 21, 2020, 12 – 2 p.m., at the Clermont Christian Church, 9204 Crawfordsville Road, Clermont, Indiana. O’Riley Funeral Home is serving the family. Visit www.ORileyFuneralHome.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
Friends and Family uploaded 24 to the gallery.
I remember calling each other “betch” and always coming up with new catch phrases for each vacation. I remember us playing What are the Odds with Carlie and always teaming up to make her do embarrassing things. I remember her being so excited to go to the bar in Puerto Rico. I remember her sending me funny TikToks. I remember her coming over on Sundays and putting on Naruto. I remember laughing so hard we cried, and I love her laugh so much. I love her infinitely.
I have so many great and funny memories. I remember our meetings at Chick fil a . with my brands and Savannah wanting to hold and take care of the baby. I remember being at your house and Savannah trying to get me up close and personal with her pet rat! There was always love shared with your family, so many good memories. I will never forget Savannah and her smile Love Love Love
I remember Savannah’s smile. Even though she was going through a lot, she was always able to joke around and have a good time. I’ll carry her resilience with me.
May your heart and soul find peace and comfort.
Dear Family: We, the families of The Compassionate Friends, send you our heartfelt condolences on Savannah’s passing. The Compassionate Friends is an international grief support group for parents, grandparents and siblings who have suffered the heartbreaking loss of a child. Our only mission is to provide comfort, hope and support to every family experiencing the death of a son or daughter, brother or sister, or grandchild, and to help others better assist the grieving family. We meet monthly on the first Tuesday at the First Baptist Church, 99 W. Main St, Greenwood, IN 46142 and on the third Thursday at the Epworth United Methodist, 6450 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46220. If and when you are ready to do so, please join us for either, or both, meetings. We Need Not Walk Alone. We are The Compassionate Friends. The Compassionate Friends Central Indiana Chapter (317) 250-0351 (Jodie) http://www.tcfcentralindiana.org http://www.compassionatefriends.org
I haven’t seen Savannah in a couple of years but I know she was still the same resilient, kind, and funny girl that I knew all those years growing up. I will always cherish and miss the times at the Zehnder household. Love and miss you all.
To Shawn and the Zehnders – We are here for you if you need anything. We can’t imagine how difficult this must be. You have our sincerest sympathies.
I will remember Savannah for her very loud and contagious laugh. I can still hear it in my head clear as day. Any time she’d come over to visit her family, I knew she was home as I could hear her beautiful laugh all the way upstairs, and it would instantly make me smile. Savannah was such a fun, sweet person full of humor and sassy remarks. She was so loved, and my heart goes out to the Zehnder family.
Savannah was a strong, hilarious, and beautiful person. She made working at UPS lots of fun with our shared sense of humor and multiple inside jokes. We were always able to make each other laugh with Spongebob references, even if one of us was having a bad day. She was a fun person to talk to and I will always cherish our friendship.
Shawn and the Zehnder family: We are deeply sorry your family is experiencing the pain of a loss like this. You are in all of our hearts and prayers.
I had the pleasure of working with Savannah at UPS. Right off the bat we became friends and I enjoyed the camaraderie between us. I’ll always cherish the memories and time we shared. My thoughts and and prayers go out to her friends and family.
Wishing you peace and comfort through this difficult time.
i miss you everyday. nothing will be the same without you. i can still hear your laughs and how joyful you were every time you came over whenever you were off work. i love you so much, don’t ever forget that.. ߒ˜
I remember meeting Savannah way back at Cardinal when she met up with Cassidy in the hallway. Whenever we ran into each other over the years we were like old friends, shooting the breeze and sharing a laugh. I will miss your humor and strong will. Sending love to the Zehnder family through this time.
I feel like I knew all of Hollie’s children from our many conversations over the years. I know how much Hollie loves her family and my heart breaks for her and her family. Godspeed, Savannah. Please, know that we are praying for all of you and we are right around the corner if you need anything at all. Prayers, David, Laura, Zach and Chase Thompson
The Zehnder family have been in our thoughts and prayers everyday this week. We will all remember sweet Savannah and I know how much she was loved. She will remain in our hearts forever. Love, Dave, Denise, and Andrew
I remember the first time I met Savannah was in the living room of the Zehnder home. She made me feel so comfortable by telling a joke with the first sentence she said to me. She made me feel like I was just another sister to her almost instantly. Her smiles and laughter will always be remembered. My love is sent to the Zehnder family for their tragic loss.
Savannah made unloading trucks at UPS tolerable. We would always be in the same truck and we always had the best conversations. She would always make me laugh when I was feeling down. I’m so sorry for your loss. Savannah will be missed ❤️
Although I did not know Savannah very well, we were mere acquaintances, we both shared similar interests. Almost every day, while working at UPS, she would smile and wave at me and my boyfriend as we would pass by her area going to ours. I’ll never know why she waved at us, with my social anxiety it’s hard to talk to new people, but she was so welcoming and kind. She hardly knew me, let alone him, but she was still more than happy to show us her contagious smile. We are sending love to the Zehnder family. ♡
In middle school we always used to sit outside the school and wait until everyone was gone to walk home. In high-school we spent a lot of time laughing and taking pictures in the bathroom mirror. I remember car pooling to Wendy’s to eat dinner after attending a friend of ours funeral… even after such a sad week we still shared some good laughs that night. I will forever miss you, Savannah. You were an amazing person and never hesitated to give me a shoulder to cry on if I needed it. I love you, forever and always ❤
Savannah was a sweet, kind, smart girl. I had the pleasure of having her in class and getting to talk to and get to know her during her high school years. She was so so smart and no one ever had an unkind thing to say about that girl. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers sweet girl… I’m thankful you are at peace.
Savannah was such a good friend to my son John and always so kind and sweet to my family. You will be deeply missed, the sun is little less bright without you here. Till I see you again in heaven my sweet girl I will hold your smile in my heart
Savannah was a kind hearted person who cared about everybody in some sort of way. She would always check up on me to make sure I was ok no matter what kind of mood she was in. She will forever be missed by me and many more.
Savannah was truly one of a kind! I still have her graduation announcement taped to the wall behind my computer. She had a quirky sense of humor and had the ability to make me laugh or frustrate me in equal measure. Her heart was huge and kind. She really “got” so many of her friends, which made her a great friend. She was super protective of her little sister. Savannah was also incredibly stubborn; when she decided something was going to happen a certain way, that’s the way it was going to go. I’m sad that she’s no longer in our world.
I don’t really know where to begin you’re apart of so many memories. I remember when we had earth and space science my first year at Harris. I’d find you looking at me and I wanted to be your friend but I honestly thought you didn’t like me. But one day you came to me and just told me you’ve wanted to be my friend but didn’t know how to approach me. You always sat w me. Always shared your blanket and called me your brotatochip. You’d sit w me and help me laugh and you were at the bottom w me too. And even there because you were friend everything felt like it was gonna be okay. I love you…rest in peace and not a day will go by that you wont cross my mind.
I don’t really know where to begin. But thank you for being my friend. You were a one of a kind. I’ll never forget the memories we shared together. Like walking home from school everyday and listening to music screaming our favorite botdf song when we were like 13. Or or our morning rides to school everyday. Growing up you were one of my best friends. I’ll miss our late night walks on the b&o trail. And I’ll miss all of our inside jokes that nobody could ever understand. I’ll never forget us getting ready in your bathroom to go to hot skates every Friday night. Your laugh could fill a room and you had a smile that shined brighter than the sun. I hope you’re resting peacefully. Fly high bbyg. “Ima love you 10 ever” <3
Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Savannah, I’ve heard so much about her and I know I would have gotten along with her so well. The Zehnder family have treated me like family ever since Cassidy and I became friends and I have no doubt in my mind Savannah would have treated me with the same love and pure acceptance. I offer my deepest condolences for your loss.
Savannah was a beautiful person. We were fortunate to know her. Please accept our deepest condolences.
I had the pleasure of getting to know Savannah both as a middle school student with the BLC and again as a high school student at Harris. I have memories of Savannah checking out books and sitting at the library tables doodling and drawing. I enjoyed being able to connect her with books she would enjoy. I observed her develop close friendships and it was clear they were important to her. She will be remembered forever for the impact she had on others! –Lisa Johnson, Harris Academy Librarian
Savannah loved Harris Academy. I remember one semester Mrs. Lodwick had her go over to the high school because she was smart and we wanted her to take some electives that we don’t offer at Harris. Savannah did not like that and came back to Harris as soon as she was allowed to. She was so happy the day she graduated. She graduated a semester early and you can see in this picture how happy she was. I remember Mrs. McGowan and I were so proud of her we made sure to stop by her open house to celebrate with her.
I first met Savannah my freshmen year, which was almost 4 years ago today. It was my first day at a new highschool and i was lost. She walked with me to my classes and we clicked instantly, only then i didnt know how much she would impact my life. From there our friendship bloomed and i had someone i could trust, someone i could get advice, (annd clothes ❤) from. From skipping classes, to going to concerts, to long late night talks and sleepovers as adults❤ I love her so much. She was someone you could call at 6am just to talk. Savannah was truly one of a kind, she was so caring and full of life. It saddens me that she wont be around to finish flourshing as a young adult. I didnt lose a friend, i lost a sister. Savannah i hope you get to see all these people who truly cared about you, and i hope you know that you are loved. She was taken from us way to soon. Rest in heaven. I love you.
Savannah was my best friend in middle school and high school. I remember going to rocknrollers almost every Friday, hanging out after school when we’d walk home together, going to all sorts of shows and concerts together (warped tour being my favorite time with her). She introduced me to Pvris who is still one of my all time favorite bands. I loved her love for reptiles, especially her leopard geckos. I love how much she loved her family and always bragged about how talented Carly was as an artist. I could actually go on forever about our antics and how we were stupid kids who thought snorting spicy Mexican candy was a good idea (it BURNED) and how we got into a play fight once and I ended up getting punched in the face. I will always miss how things used to be, I’m so lucky to have known her.
I’ve known Savannah since I was around 7. We had sleepovers together, shared secrets, jammed really hard to eye of the tiger on guitar hero, and shared so many laughs. although time caused us to drift a bit, every time I saw her we both felt that the love was still strong. When I transferred to Harris, she was the first person to make me feel welcomed and less alone. Her laugh always caused a ripple effect, allowing others around her to feel like they can let loose and share the joy that eminated from her own. one of my favorite memories of the time I spent with Savannah is when we had a sleepover and built a pillow fort in her living room. the next morning, Holly made eggs (also the first time I’d ever seen her put ketchup on her eggs) and we did a pretend wedding ceremony for our younger siblings. Savannah was strong and determined, no matter what the world threw at her, she worked hard to get what she wanted. I’ll miss her more than I can explain, and I know when it’s my time, she will be the first person to make me feel welcomed in the afterlife.
As Cassidy’s teacher for two years at Cardinal, I was most fortunate to have gotten to know Savannah, and the Zehnder’s were that welcoming family who drew me in and were most special. Savannah was such a positive light throughout her elementary days! I would look forward to her bright smile and eager wave “hello” in the halls of Cardinal. She was so proud of Cassidy and a true big sister to Carlie when she came to school. My heart is heavy and words cannot convey the impact of this loss. Holding you all close. Love to all, Lisa McMullen
I had the privilege to be Savannah’s second grade teacher. Savannah was a sweet, kind friend to all her classmates. She had a beautiful heart and smile and the wonderful ability make others laugh. She always made sure others felt special. I appreciated her sharing her love of karate with me, and am a better person for knowing her. The world has lost a wonderful person.
I remember when I went to a friends birthday party Savannah was there and her and I were teamed up for the three legged race, and I wasn’t moving fast enough and ended up on the ground as Savannah dragged me. I’ll never forget that
Thinking of Savannah’s family. Our hearts are broken to hear of your great loss. With much love, Libby & Malek & Mueen &Liz Kharrat
I met Savannah in 2015 when I traveled from Guatemala to United States as an exchange student. I’m so thankful with Cassidy to introduce me to her wonderful family which I miss a lot. I will always remember Savannah being funny and really nice, specially with me because she made me feel like home all the time. I remember many laughs and talks at Cassidy’s house and one time when I fell asleep in the couch and Savannah put a blanket on me because I was not used to the weather… I can remember really good times with Savannah and all the beautiful family that always made me feel part of. All my prayers go to her and to all the family. God has given us light with a new Angel that will always be there. – Vale
I had met savannah in my first year of middle school and we quickly became super close we rarely did anything without the other and that was true for most of my high school year and I even fulfilled my promise I had made to her when we were younger that when I got a place we would live together. I remember that she would never let me live down every and embarrassing moment I ever had. I will miss her so much she was always there for me. I will miss her smile the way she would laugh for no reason and it was so infectious I would laugh even if it was something serious. I loved her so much and her memory will never be forgotten the photo I have was when she first moved in with me in my apartment one of our happiest moments.
Sav could make anyone laugh no matter what. She had the most contagious laughter that could fill a room. I can speak for everyone that her smile will stay shining in all of our lives forever and guide us in her memory.
With deepest sympathy,
There are no words to express how heavy-hearted we are to hear of the loss of your precious Savannah. Just reading through the tributes, we are touched by the fact it was the simple things Savannah did that people remember… she was kind and made others feel like they matter. What a great lesson for all of us. Your entire family are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Christine and Doug Baker
Hollie, you and your family are in my thoughts as you walk through this grief. Sending love & strength to each of you always.
Savannah and I met at UPS. When we first met she was a little shy but one day she wore a Naruto shirt and I geeked out when I saw it and that’s how we started talking. Sav had a huge heart. Even on some of the roughest days at work she would be silly and make those around her smile and laugh. I’m glad to call savannah my friend! I will miss the days where I would see her and talk about anything and everything. Im going to miss the late night runs to the gas station to get speedy freezes and snacks. I’m going to miss the anime talks and the way she joked around. I was very lucky to have someone like her in my life. I will treasure it forever.
I have known the Zehnder family since I was young. And Savannah has always been filled with so much love, craziness, fun, light and curiosity. I remember her and Cassidy would always laugh way too hard at jokes and find the light out of any situation. Whenever you enter the Zehnder home all of the love in the house hits you, you can feel it in the air. Savannah was truly loved by not only her family but anyone that came in contact with her, there was no way not to love her. I am sending all of my condolences to the family and wish nothing but the best for every one of them.
My last memory will be Savannah enjoying the pool! She was always smiling! She will be missed! There’s nothing I can say except I love you all , and I’m here if you need me!
Savannah and I met in middle school during a time I was finding myself as a person, and she was one of the greatest people I looked up to. She was confident, strong, hilarious, and she helped me learn to not give a damn about what other people thought about me. I will never forget the impact she made on me at that age and the wonderful times we made during the “horrors” of being in middle school. I love you Savannah. Sending love and strength to the Zehnders.
Savannah and I hung out a lot in elementary and middle school and I always considered her one of my closest friends. She was there for anyone who needed a friend. She made sure no one felt alone or left out and was always there to help. Savannah, I’m gonna forever miss you. Sending all my love to her family ❤️
I met savannah at traders point church, it was my first time going to that Church and she was the first person to come to me, she was so kind and funny, we drifted sadly in the last year or so due to me moving and work but I’ll always remember that smile and her laugh, she was always there for people to talk to no matter what time it was, she always made time to help, she was always able to light up a dark room and had this sweet kind energy she rubbed off on allot of people, you’ll be missed savannah, I’m keeping y’all in my thoughts and prayers
I met Savannah in high school, she was always smiling and making people smile and just spreading happiness. She was an amazing person, and always has been. I’m forever going to miss her. I’m so very sorry for your guys loss, sending lots of love and prayers to the family and friends.
When I think of Savannah, I see this little girl.. Big heart, bright eyes & contagious laugh. She was sweet & goofy…my cousin & my friend. She reminded me of myself as a kid. I’ll always remember our sleepovers, getting milkshakes, playing board games, going fishing.. I’ll remember you calling me to play Animal Crossing with you. I’ll remember going on spooky road trips with you. I’ll remember your love for whip cream & ketchup and your love for Naruto, which you shared with Jerry. Sooo many more memories from family outings & gatherings. Your life was cut short, but filled with such vibrancy. May your family find comfort in knowing that you are at peace with the world now. You are loved & missed dearly. ߒ•
Savannah and I met when she first started working at UPS. I taught her how to do things on the lines and we got along instantly. She was so sweet and we clicked well. There was a thing we did is every other day we would being each other a slushy because we both loved them. We had hung out outside of work a few times, and I’m glad we did. She had a good heart
Lit a candle in memory of Savannah Grace Zehnder
Sometimes your path crosses with an angel. We are all so lucky to have met Savannah and had her touch our hearts. The world will not be the same without her unique perspective on things. I loved you Savannah and always will. Anna Roberts
I remember going to brown county with her she was so fun to be with she was such a free spirit always so curious I will miss her dearly.
Friday night before her passing I wished Savannah good luck for the week to come if only I knew it would be the last time that I would get to speak with her. Unfortunately I didn’t get back in town until after her ceremony was held but I would like to send my condolences to friends and family. Savannah is missed dearly and she will not be forgotten. It’s difficult going from seeing her five days a week and watching her grow as a person to walking into the office and she is not sitting in her usual spot. A memory I hold of her is she would get the exact meal from Chick-fil-A and McDonald’s every night. A spicy chicken sandwich from Chick-fil-A and fries from McDonald’s because she didn’t like waffle fries and lots & lots of ketchup. She loved Dr Pepper and buying lottery tickets because she always won.She always took pictures of the sunset outside of work so I have attached a picture of a sunset for her. My condolences especially go out to Savannah’s mother. We have never met but Savannah said you were always supportive and like a best friend to her. Savannah will always hold a place in heart.
Savannah was so cool, her and her sisters individuality always inspired me to be myself. When I was in middle school and high school I would spend a lot of time at the Zehnder’s, we’d go to the movies, eat fast food, and have so many laughs. Sometimes that was just me laughing at Savannah and Cassidy’s sisterly bickering lol. Savannah was always so witty, so smart, and so mature for her age. She will be loved always, cherished always, and missed always by everyone she touched. I’ll always remember Savannah and remember how her and Cassidy inspired me to be myself.
Savannah was one of the absolute sweetest people I ever had the privilege of knowing. She lit up every room she walked into and never ceased to make the people around her happy. Whether it was on our rides home from school, going to concerts, or just hanging out with friends she could always make a bad day a billion times better. I will miss and love her always.
Beautiful Savannah, you will be missed so dearly. We love you and remember you so fondly. Thank you for the joy you brought your friends and for being a great friend to Kaylie so many years ago. Love Jim, Tricia, Hannah and Kaylie
Missing you so much Sav. Wish you could go to Michigan with us.
Missing you more than ever… sometimes I feel so numb thinking about you not being here.
You’d be losing your shit if you were here, finding out I bought a house. You’d be planning a party already. Hate that I have to do this life without you. Sometimes I find myself daydreaming of another dimension where you’re still alive and honestly that’s how I cope. Miss you so much.