JOHN PARKER SHANNON

John Parker Shannon, born January 26, 1933, died peacefully, on Wednesday, September 24, 2025. Dearly loved husband of Marcia Shannon (née Mazzucchi) for 64 years; loving father of John Jr. (Andrée-Cybèle Bilinski), Elizabeth (R. Bruce McVittie), and Patrick (Hedy Ginzberg); grandchildren, Christopher (Ananda de Silva Delevati), Leanora, Rachel and Kathleen, Arielle and Lyla; and great-grandchildren, Bennit and Thomas. Also survived by brother, Martin; and many loving nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, George and Leonora Shannon (née Bennett), of Newton and Hyannis Port, Massachusetts; brothers, George and Gerald; and sisters, Patricia McNally and Leonora Williams. John was a visionary, a problem solver, a change agent, and a man of principle. During his early career at the University of California Scientific Laboratory in Los Alamos, New Mexico he led a team which spearheaded the field of CGI, creating the first movie animated using computer graphics: "Waterfall". He was a pioneer in high tech when high tech barely existed. John moved his family to Ottawa in 1970, accepting a position in the newly established Department of Urban Affairs where he used computer graphics to communicate government data to decision makers. Some of his proudest achievements were a computer algorithm used in animation that endured as a standard for decades and programs that guided ships through the ports of Vancouver and air traffic at Mirabel Airport; he was always innovating to improve conditions. And his proudest achievement was the adventure through life that he led with his bride of 64 years. John had dyslexia but was never one to be limited by his difficulties. He was scrupulous, careful and charming, and he focused on doing things the right way, even if it flew against tradition. He was resolute in his choice to focus on the positives, stating that no one had the ability to make him unhappy other than himself. John kept a card in his wallet with an adaptation of Bessie Anderson Stanley's poem Success, reflecting his belief that true success is not measured by wealth, but by kindness, integrity, and the positive difference one makes in the lives of others. Funeral Arrangements are entrusted with the Robert J. Reid & Sons Funeral Home, (613-548-7973). Family and friends will gather in celebration of his life at the Kingston Yacht Club, Kingston, Ontario, on Saturday, October 4th, from 4-6 p.m.