Shawn R Petterson

Shawn Petterson, 46, of Brookfield, WI, formerly of Aurora, IL, passed away unexpectedly on December 26, 2025. He was born on September 6, 1979, in Aurora, IL. Shawn was a beautiful soul with a charming, charismatic personality that was truly one of a kind.

A devoted sports enthusiast, Shawn especially loved cheering on the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs—and though he also had a soft spot for the Packers, we never held that against him. He was a passionate hockey fan and loved watching ESPN. Shawn was an animal lover through and through, sharing his life with many beloved pets over the years. 

Shawn's wit and intelligence were unmatched, and his passing leaves a profound and lasting scar on the hearts of his family and friends. In his final act of generosity, Shawn chose to be an organ donor, giving the gift of life to multiple people. His spirit will continue to live on through those he saved. Organ donation is one of the purest acts of selflessness, and his family is deeply proud of him. Having recently been blessed with the gift of organ donation within our own family, the gratitude we feel is beyond words. 

Shawn is survived by his fiancé, Jennifer Kelly; his father, Rodney Petterson; his twin brother, Shane Petterson; his sister, Misty Howard; his brother, Joe Howard; and his special cousin, Kimberly Ahlgren. He is also survived by his aunt Melody (Carl) Schlaack, uncle Larry (Kelly) Petterson, aunt Gwen (Lloyd) Bryant, and his fiancé's parents, Mike and Jacque Kelly. Shawn leaves behind his cherished cats—Mommy, Maybell, and Frankie—as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews, including his great-niece Layla and his newborn great-nephew Kyro, along with a host of dear friends.He was preceded in death by his mother, Rebecca Petterson; his grandparents, Robert and Nancy Petterson; his grandparents, James and Janie Owens; his nephew, Brandon Howard; and friend Christina Hunter. He will also be reunited with his beloved animals—Madison, Bentley, Harley, Cubbie, and Brewer.

And one thing is certain—Shawn will be rooting for the Bears. Bear Down. Always and Forever.

Services will be provided by Dieterle Memorial Home at 1120 S. Broadway Rd Montgomery, IL on March 6, 2026, with Visitation from 11-12p - Celebration of Life (Service) to begin at 12p.