Shannon Colleen HOGAN

SHANNON COLLEEN HOGAN As a natural born teacher, Shannon courageously guided her family and friends through the difficult lessons associated with terminal cancer. On March 29, 2023, Shannon passed away peacefully with her wife of 37 years, Pamela-Jay Bond, her dear friend and minister Cheri DiNovo, and dearest friend, Sarah Muttitt at her bedside, praying her into eternal life. At the age of 68 Shannon also leaves behind her loving mother, Virginia (Bernie 2013); and brother, John (Alma) and family. Shannon's family in Edmonton includes in-laws Jeanette, Mark (Ada) and Chris Bond. Shannon is survived by many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews, who will miss her dearly. Shannon grew up in Windsor, Ontario. She earned a BA degree at the University of Western Ontario and later trained as a teacher. Shannon began her career in education in 1981 as a secondary school teacher with the Metropolitan Separate School Board (later renamed the Toronto Catholic District School Board), teaching English and Theology. Over the course of her career, Shannon served as Chair of the Religious Department Heads Association and was a School Chaplain. She earned her principal qualifications and was a professor in the Pre-service Religious Education program at York University. Shannon became a Consultant of Religious Education and Adult Faith Animator with the Toronto Catholic District School Board in 1997. In 2006 Shannon joined the Provincial Office of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association (OECTA). After serving for a number of years as a Staff Officer in the Professional Development Department, she joined OECTA's Counselling and Member Services Department, where her specialist qualifications in Religious Education and Guidance Counselling greatly assisted her in providing support to OECTA's members throughout the province. During her work in education, Shannon continued to study, earning advanced degrees in Theology and Counselling Psychology. She also completed all the requisites for doctoral work in Theology. As was noted in OECTA's tribute to Shannon upon her recent retirement, she dedicated her career to supporting and advocating for others - first, for the students she taught in Toronto; and then, through her roles at the Board Office and Provincial Office, for all Catholic teachers and students across the province. Shannon drew on her vast knowledge of theology and world religions to provide perspective on many issues. Shannon possessed the heart and soul of a teacher. Shannon was a gifted storyteller, bringing unique insights to even the most familiar of stories. She had an infectious laugh and could see the humorous side to almost any situation. One of the many joys of Shannon's life was when she and Pam welcomed each new puppy into their family, beginning with their beloved Murphy. Shannon was fluent in a number of languages, which she often said was a great help on Parent-Teacher Night. She and Pam loved to travel and experience different cultures. Shannon was an excellent cook, and she and Pam delighted in creating delicious meals together for friends and family during countless gatherings to celebrate not only special occasions, but just the joy of being together. Shannon lived her life in wonder and curiosity. Her gift for enjoying the fullness and beauty of each moment was so profound that she was able to make even ordinary moments extraordinary. Over nearly two years of treatment, Shannon always spoke highly of the care she received at Princess Margaret Hospital, especially from Dr. Marcus Butler and his exceptional team. Family and friends are also grateful for the compassionate care that Shannon received at Bridgepoint Hospital as she entered palliative care. While in hospital, Shannon's dear friends and colleagues were extraordinary in "just being" with Shannon, lifting her spirits as she battled melanoma. A Service of Remembrance for Shannon will be held at Trinity-St. Paul's United Church, 427 Bloor St. West (at Spadina), Toronto, on Wednesday, April 12, at 11:00 a.m. Family and close friends will be receiving visitors one hour before the start of the service. Please be advised that parking is very limited in the church neighbourhood and extra time should be allotted for travel. For those who wish, donations may be made to the Princess Margaret Foundation or to Trinity-St. Paul's United Church. A livestream of the Service of Remembrance will be available through www.turnerporter.ca. for those who are unable to attend in person. Online condolences may be made through www.turnerporter.ca.