Gregg Shanks

1975 - 2022

December 12, 1975 - March 4, 2022

Beloved teacher, performer, philanthropist and family man, Gregg Shanks' life didn't come to an end with his death. He passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on March 4, 2022 but his legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends and students that he has touched throughout his incredible life.

Gregg grew up and went to elementary and high school in Burlington, Ontario. Although humble about his intellect, Gregg successfully completed his Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience at the University of Guelph and went on to complete a Master's degree in Neuroscience at the University of Alberta, and a Bachelor of Education in Drama and Biology from Brock University. He was accepted into medical school, but despite not finishing, his passion for helping people carried on throughout his life. This self-proclaimed clown travelled to Ecuador with Patch Adams on a mission to spread joy and happiness and continued this noble mission throughout the remainder of his life.

Along with spreading joy, his love affair with drama led him to perform in many community productions including Jesus Christ Superstar, West Side Story, Fiddler on the Roof, Shrek, Spamalot and Blood Brothers just to name a few. His final starring role was in his family's Christmas play with his daughter and nieces, which he single-handedly wrote, produced and directed and was well received by audiences. His passion for performing spilled from the theatre into his personal life with a love of costumes, Halloween and breaking out into song with his stunning tenor at every opportunity.

His love affair for drama was equally matched with his love of teaching and he was a well-known presence at both schools at which he worked - Oakville Trafalgar and T. A. Blakelock High schools. He was involved in numerous clubs and programs including Tiger Crew, drama, Chess club, Eco Schools and Creating a Scene. The impact he made on his students' lives is immeasurable. Gregg passionately threw his whole self into teaching, striving always to be the best teacher he could be.

Gregg extensively travelled throughout the world, visiting Europe, China, Hawaii, many Caribbean islands, Central America and Scotland. He was an avid sports fan, always cheering for his team, the New England Patriots and especially Tom Brady. Other interests include being a member of the Masons Waverley Lodge, fishing and backwoods camping.

He is survived by his wife Chantal and stepdaughter Sunny Zawada, stepmother Ann Marie Ryan, brother Colin Shanks and Cousin Spencer Rhodes (Sarah) and cherished nephews Hayden and Lucas. He was a wonderful presence in the lives of his nieces Isabel and Willa and their families, his sisters-in-law, Nicole (Stephan) and Arianne (John). He is predeceased by his father Colin and his beloved mother Elaine Rhodes, with whom he shared a passion for teaching, silliness and always looking on the bright side of life.

Gregg was larger than life and accomplished so much, but tragically his time was cut much too short. Despite this, he definitely attained his life goal of making the world a better place. Every person that met Gregg was touched by his infectious zest for life, humour, unabashed kindness and great big bear hugs. Although it makes the loss greater and the sadness deeper, he was loved and cherished by so many different groups of people throughout his life. They can honour his legacy by continuing to live their lives to the fullest and bring joy to those around them.

Visitations are scheduled for March 9 from 3-6p.m., March 10 from 6-9p.m., and a celebration of life March 11 at 1p.m., held at Smith's Funeral home, Guelph Line. All are welcome. Donations can be made in his honour to either the SickKids Foundation or the Gesundheit! Institute.