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Shawn Giffin Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Shawn Giffin
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Larry Poudrier
August 20, 2014
I found out about this horrible tragedy today . . . four years later and I was stunned. Shawn and Laura (and later Jake and Kyle) were our neighbors in Mission Viejo. When Cindy and I went to look at our new home and met Shawn, he seemed so young that we wondered what his parents would be like as neighbors. We were sure he was just a young man living with his folks. Imagine our surprise and joy when we realized our neighbors were Shawn and Laura. One year Shawn helped coach my sons Little League team (well before Jake arrived). We had a wonderful time that year. Shawn and Laura hosted my 40th birthday party. Later, at their wedding, all of the neighbors toasted to our neighborhood and said "May the circle be unbroken". I miss those days and great friends. But I'll always carry the joys we all shared with me in my heart.
Laura, please be well. And know we all still love you. The Poudrier's
October 24, 2013
I was Shawn's biology teacher in high school. I was shocked and saddened to hear this news. I will always remember him as a bright, courteous, and very fun student when he was in 9th grade. I really liked him! I am very, very sorry. Dr. Dave Peck. (San Diego)
Craig Garza
August 2, 2010
Shaun will be missed by many, even the indiviuals like me whom only had the opportunity to spend time together in high school. Clearly he touched many peoples lives...even from a far.
All my best to his family!
Joe Groppenbacher
July 21, 2010
I had the great fortune to meet Shawn while in High School. He was a freshman and running for class president. Even back then he was determined to succeed at whatever he was doing. I also went to college with Shawn, and even roomed with him in the fraternity for a couple of years. How someone could get such good grades in college while having so much fun was amazing to witness.
Having Shawn as a friend meant that there was never a dull moment He was always the one that would think up the great pranks (just ask Steve Eisenfeld). Shawn was always the smarter one, and he was there to help me in class when I was having trouble. I had some of the best times in my life with Shawn and I will miss him always.
To Fred and Marti- What can I say other than you raised a fine son. With all of Shawn's extraordinary gifts, I believe his greatest gift was how he brought other people up to his level, and made everyone feel special. He had a true magnetism.
To Laura- I had seen Shawn date a few girls in college, but when he told me about this girl from Florida that he was now dating, I could tell he was in love. You truly were the love of his life. You brought him much happiness.
To Shawn's sons-
I've never met you in person. Hopefully I will get that chance one day. If we do meet, I have plenty of stories to tell you that demonstrate what a truly remarkable person your Dad was. He was taken from you too soon an my heart breaks for that. I know that he was vey proud of you, and that he loved you more than you could know.
Since Shawn left us, I've thought about him every day. Funny memories, sad memories, we shared them all. I hope and pray that he is in a better place and that he has found peace.
Karen Schneidmiller (Cole)
July 19, 2010
I can’t say that I knew Shawn very well as an adult, but I am very fond of the young man I grew up with on East Geneva Drive. As the younger sister of two adventurous older brothers, I was frequently very envious of the boys in the neighborhood like Shawn. We grew up in a time (1970’s) when kids headed outside on a hot Arizona summer day, from sun up to long after the sun came down. Our parents would be upset that we had once again left open the sliding glass door (costing them a small fortune to air condition the outdoors) and insist that we drink from the hose when we got thirsty to prevent unnecessary opening and closing of the doors. We would get pulled out of the pool briefly to eat some lunch (30 additional minutes out of the water or we might get a cramp and drown). Shawn was like my third older brother for many years of my youth. The “nice one” that would sometimes convince my brothers that it was okay to include me in their adventures. The boys would often hop on their bikes or skateboards, head over to the vacant dirt lot or school yard to perform a stunt or settle for some version of football, baseball or hide-n-seek played in the front yards of our neighborhood. Life was good and very simple. A few years later, the games we would play became a little more risky or even delinquent at times, but always entertaining. (Those of you involved know what I am talking about…..) Those days bring a smile to my face, especially when I attempt to parent my own children. Shawn was always at the center of the most memorable events. He was always a very curious, creative and driven person. I was never surprised by his accomplishments in his youth and then by his continue success as an adult. Shawn was different than most of my older brothers’ friends. Although he always remained “one of the guys”, he also had a nurturing, mature side that looked out for others. I can recall a time when I was about twelve years old, and I was at my most socially awkward. Shawn must have been about fourteen. With nothing more than the notion than I was a bit insecure, he took the time to pull me aside, like the big brother he truly was, and said a few nice words that lasted a lifetime. His words were simple, but gave me some confidence that I so desperately needed at the time. He was clearly raised well by his family, and for this many of us benefited. I truly wish that I would have said this to your face Shawn, but hope that in saying thanks now, your two boys will see a bit more of a father that they can be very proud of. When we choose to look beyond our own personal grieving, we can all smile widely in your memory.
Most Sincerely,
Sally Graf
July 18, 2010
Dearest Jake & Kyle...You do not know me and I really regret that fact. Your dad was my nephew and all through the years your Grandpa and Grandma have kept me informed of his comings and goings. I have seen lots of pictures of you two at your Grandpa Giffins homes. I was visiting them in June for a week and they shared many storie about how terrific you two are. I live near Nashville in Tn. and if you ever want to visit PLEASE let me know. My deepest sympathy and love to you both. Great Aunt Sally
Joni Croxton
July 9, 2010
Shawn Giffin was my friend and neighbor for over 10 years. What I know to be true is that Shawn loved his boys, Jake and Kyle, with all his heart, with everything he had. Shawn would spend hours playing soccer, football and catch with the boys, never seeming to tire or lose patience. He was also really good to all the neighborhood kids, including my son, Chris, as well as friends who happened to be over; always a kind and encouraging word, never judging, making everyone feel welcome and included. I will remember Shawn as a fun-loving, devoted father with his boyish grin and contagious laugh.
Leigh Dorand
July 7, 2010
Laura, Jake, Kyle, Scott, Mr and Mrs Giffin; I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Shawn was a fine man that showed grace and class every day and taught me a enormous amount about business but more importantly he taught me about life and people and how to treat them, and for this I am so grateful to have known him.
Shawn was a great mentor and his inspirational and motivational qualities were second to none, he will be missed by me and many others.
My prayers are with all of you and I pray that God will provide you all comfort during this difficult time.
God Bless all of you
Michael Ross
July 7, 2010
Dear Giffin Family:
Like so many others, Shawn has forever changed my life. I have been blessed to know Shawn since going to work for him in 1998. Shawn's charismatic leadership and passion for life was inspiring and contagious. Shawn was a visionary with a gift of seeing other people's potential and empowering their growth. It didn't take long before Shawn took me under his wing and became a mentor. I have benefited so much from that investment Shawn has made in me over the years and I cherish his gift of trust and friendship. I see fruits of Shawn's legacy in my life each day—from my personal relationships to how I approach business and participation in YPO/EO.
Shawn loved his family more than anything. Jake and Kyle, I have never known a father more proud of his sons. Scott, I remember Shawn reminiscing of the fun days of childhood and how much Shawn admired and looked up to you.
Laura, Jake, Kyle, Scott, Mr. and Mrs. Giffin, I am so sorry for your loss. I pray that God will comfort your soul, hold you close and provide peace. Cherish your wonderful memories and know that you are loved.
Shawn, thank you for the gift of your amazing and extraordinary life that changed so many people. We are forever grateful and we love you.
Jacquie Emert
July 6, 2010
To the Giffin family:
I first met Shawn in 1988 and soon came to realize that I had met a truly amazing person. I had the good fortune to work with Shawn for many many years. I can not begin to describe all the things he did for me. He was so generous and thoughtful and always my champion. I will miss him dearly. My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
laura giffin
July 4, 2010
Dearest friends,
We have been so comforted by your words of encouragement and love. Thank you! Shawn's memorial will be held at 6:00 p.m, this Friday, July 9th at Mariner's Church Chapel in Irvine. We welcome all who knew and loved Shawn to celebrate and remember him. Please pass the word to his many friends, as all are encouraged to come and participate in the celebration of his life. If you have any photos or would like to write a note with a special remembrance of time spent with Shawn, please bring them with you! They will be collected at the service for his sons, to fill a life story of their father as others knew him that they can hold onto forever. Any correspondence to the family may be sent to 19 Rue Fountainebleau, Newport Beach, CA 92660. The boys and I will be forever grateful for all the love you've shown. God bless.
Allan Hunter
July 4, 2010
Jake & Kyle - Stay strong by drawing close to God. The searing pain, confusion (& maybe anger) that grips you now will lessen. But don't be afraid to express your feelings. In you dad's eyes, the sun rose & set on you two boys. In time, this fact coupled with the innumerable fun & positive memories will win the day. They will re-ignite your confidence & joy about life. My prayer is that Jesus will turn this tragedy into triumph for your family. You have a mother who adores you, close friends & relatives who are equally smitten; all of them will rise up & support you in your deep sadness time of need. I never met your dad, but my son, Blake was very fond of him. Clearly, one of the reasons he was so so successful in business was that he understood people & could inspire them. He possessed this same talent when it came to young people, like children of different ages, especially boys. You two had a great dad, and you should be proud of him for all time. My prayer for you is also that you two somehow use these mind
boggling painful times to increase your relationships with God. Why? Because a strong faith is what carries us in times of adversity. I can't fathom what you're going through right now, but as you know our family has been slammed with multiple tragedies in recent years. And what I do know is this: There are certain gut wrenching problems that have only one hope or solution. Complete surrender to God; something you will understand fully as you mature & rack up the years. Wishing you God's peace which surpasses all human understanding... In simpler terms, feel better.
July 3, 2010
Jake & Kyle -- I'm so sorry you lost your beloved dad. I know both of you believe in God. As hurting sad as you are right now, and as crazy as things are, God will somehow weave your dad's passing into something good. Maybe not tomorrow or next month, but some day...He, God will transform tragedy into triumph. God will also ease your suffering and re-ignite your excitement about life. Please stay close to Jesus and let Him wipe away your tears and stop the crying, when the time is right. I never met your dad but I know Blake was very fond of him; and, of course, you two loved him fiercely. Your dad accomplished a lot in the business world & you will always be proud of him for those accomplishments. But his greatest accomplishments (& loves) were (& are) the two of you, and no one can take that away from you! You each have long lives ahead of you and the positive memories of your dad will dwell inside your hearts (inspiring you forward) until you yourselves leave this earth many-many decades from now. Stay positive and take whatever steps you need to increase your faith in God. With great compassion for your loss, and wishing you God's grace always -- Allan Hunter (Blake's dad)
Jim Roybal & Family
July 3, 2010
Dear Mrs. Giffin and family:
I've had the privilege of knowing Shawn since going to work for him 1994. He, then and since, loomed large in my life...."he loomed like the sun."
Shawn's generosity of spirit was everywhere apparent.... in drawing out and burnishing the strengths of others he reminded us of who we were, or more accurately, who we could be.
Shawn was joy-filled and relentless in moving from victory to victory in life. He happily, selflessly welcomed so many to join him. Once this goal or that were achieved, he gave the credit to everybody else. As for me and many others, I learned a great deal from Shawn's graceful example. I took those things and did the best I could to integrate them permanently into my own life. In this way, Shawn lives on.
To Laura, Jake, Kyle, Scott, and Mr. and Mrs. Giffin, we extend our love. Oh God, pour out your tender mercy on this precious family.
To Shawn, thank you. We love you.... and we always will.
laura giffin
July 3, 2010
A memorial is planned for Shawn next Friday, July 9, 2010. It is a celebration of remembrance open to all Shawn's friends and loved ones. It will be held at the Mariner's Church Chapel, at a late afternoon time to be determined. Please join us as we remember Shawn as we knew and loved him. Please bring any photos, stories, souvenirs, and other remembrance to pass to his sons to help keep their father's memory alive forever.
John Snyder
July 2, 2010
My deepest and sincere condolences, thoughts, and prayers to the entire family. I was truly fortunate to know and work with Shawn. Certainly one of the best people I have ever known.
Greg Miller
July 2, 2010
Shawn was one of the smartest, funniest and inspirational guys I have ever known. His leadership and drive is the reason that Balboa Capital became the company that it is today. Shawn responsible for giving many people the opportunity to learn about the finance industry and to start their own companies. Shawn had an impact on many people. I will always remember his smile, charm, passion and sense of humor.
Mitch Kleinman
July 2, 2010
There is a Facebook memorial page for Shawn at http://www.facebook.com/alyre.leblanc#!/group.php?gid=110540628993070&ref=ts please feel free to comment .
I miss him and think about him everyday........
Candace Reinhart
July 2, 2010
My deepest sympathies go out to the Giffin family. I only knew Shawn for a short time but I was a first hand witness to the adoration he had for his boys and the enthusiasm he had for good laughs, business and the people around him. He will be missed.
The Lynne Family
July 2, 2010
deepest sympathy to Shawn's family...we were stunned to hear that this vibrant,intelligent,witty man is gone to us here..he is in our prayers as is those he leaves behind..
Steve S
July 1, 2010
To Shawn's family, I can't imagine the pain and grief you must be enduring; Shawn was a top notch guy. For fellow Chargers in Tempe and located throughout the world, this is a tragic event that will play a role in our lives, each individually. I think for all of us, Shawn will be remembered as our class president, all four years, taking on huge roles and getting students to participate. From playing basketball at Meyer Park to Intramurals with Coach Barnett, Shawn was always involved. I made a feeble attempt at class president our first year, meeting Shawn for the first time. I soon realized this little guy, with a zest for life and fun was the real deal. My dad was Shawn's principal in Jr. High and warned me of my foe and there soon after I realized what he was talking about. With that said, God Bless Shawn and I'll never forget the four years of high school we spent together. You my friend, were the real deal. Basketball at Meyer, on Sunday nights, would have never been the same.
Vince LaMantia
June 30, 2010
My deepest thoughts, prayers and sympathies go out to the Giffin family.
I have known Shawn since our days at the U of A where we pledged the same fraternity. He was very well thought of and very well respected. He was also an incredible athlete.
May Shawn rest in peace.
Vince LaMantia
June 30, 2010
I was stunned and saddened to hear the news of Shawn's passing. I knew Shawn from college days being fraternity brothers as well as roommates for a semester. Shawn was very well liked and respected; and he really handled people on the playing fields whether it was basketball or raquetball. He was very dependable and very loyal to all of his friends.
My deepest sympathies goes out to the Giffin family and all of his friends that he touched.
Cindy Armenta
June 30, 2010
My prayers and friendship are with Shawn's Family. I'm proud to have known Shawn.
Denise Byrne
June 29, 2010
Shawn was and remains a star that touched so many lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, the family that he was so proud of and loved deeply.
Keysha Harrsion
June 29, 2010
My deepest sympathies go out to the Giffin Family during this most difficult time of loss. May the words found at Isaiah 61:2 bring you comfort.
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