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Anne Zimmerman
October 1, 2008
Beverly,
It is an honor that you asked me to write about my brother, Danny, Shannon's dad. I know that he loved you and he loved Shannon. I remember a photo of Shannon when she was app. 2 years old. He was so proud to show that picture and point out, "She looks like me". It was a very unfortunate thing that for reasons best left behind that you, Beverly and Danny were not destined to wed. We don't know would it have worked, would young love so pure and intense wither and die? We will never know since God took Danny at such an early age.
My greatest regret regarding Shannon is not getting to know her. Could I have made a difference in her life? Sadly, I'll never know.I do know that she had a wonderrful mother whose time with Shannon was way too short. We grieve for her and miss her, but I must believe that her burdens had become to great to bear. I also believe that Danny looked down and saw her pain. He called to her and said, "Shannon come home to Dad there's no pain here. We can spend eternity together".
I love Shannon because she is my family and some day I will get the opportunity to hear her laugh and give her LOVE forever.
Anne (Babb) Zimmerman
Shannon's paternal aunt
Sue Caudillo
September 5, 2008
I can't believe a year has already gone by. Even though I did not know you very well I feel I have gotten to know you by hearing your mom talk about you. I know there were many days that she would want to pick up the phone and call you before she realized that she could not.
Your loss will always hurt but your mom has managed to keep going as she knows you are no longer hurting.
Just know that we will be here for her when and if she needs us.
Bonny Jaswal
September 4, 2008
Shannon made amusing comments, and I laughed. Shannon spoke of her feelings, and I cried. Shannon told me of her struggles, and I listened. We shared, we loved, and I miss her.
Brenda Shores
September 3, 2008
To those who knew and loved Shannon, add me to the list. I met Shannon in July of 1983 when I joined the Argonne Rebels Drum and Bugle Corps in Great Bend. My first time meeting her, she ran up to me, grabbed my hand, licked it and said "Hi, I'm Brooke Shields!" She was hysterically funny, extremely bright, compassionate and very sensitive. We never lost touch no matter what, and I value my relationship with her over the years so much. I frequently find myself thinking I should call her, and then remember she is gone. I am grateful to have been in her life and I wish for her what I always wished for her, some peace. And to her family and all friends, you are all in my thoughts.
Stephanie Rank
September 2, 2008
Dearest Shannon,
I have so much to share with you—I don’t know where to start. But I will say this: on Friday I went to pick up Baby Scooby from school and his teacher told me that he not only said the word “yellow” but he was able to put yellow items in the yellow bin in a well-thought out fashion. She also said that “Baby Jesus” was indeed a “Baby Genius.” And I thought to myself….just like his Auntie Shannon. Also, Natester is using sign language! I know you recall the wonderful sign language books you gave to him when we was born. Well, Jeff has been working with Scoobilicious and he signs everything now---even the word KITTY! My last comment about Scooby for now is that he has his own photo albulm that he loves to look through each night before bed. He points to the pictures and says Pop-pop for Jeff Sr, Ma-ma for Granny Bev, MiMi for Grammy Joyce, Da-Da, Ma-ma for me, and Cyn-cyn for Cynthia and Shani for you, Shannon! I miss you so much. And I simply love to bring you into our daily routines and bring your spirit into Nathanial Rank’s life. We love you, my dear, and you remain in our hearts and minds forever.
Love
Stephanie
Cristan Rayl
August 31, 2008
Aunt Bev, Steph, and Eric:
It has been almost a year that Shannon has been gone. We have added a couple more kids to our family legacy, watched our children grow bigger and stronger, our families get together for some fun times yet Shannon is still not here. I think of her often and know that she is in a great place. She is having a ball talking about life, love and the fact that Georgie is going to be out of office soon. She is solving the problems of the world without feeling the weight of the world on her shoulders and for that I am happy but for her being gone, I am still very sad. I can't even imagine how much loss you still feel. Our hearts are with you all and we love you very much!
Bobbye Puckett
August 30, 2008
Shannon, I hope by now you have met Barby. Maybe she told you all about her Mom. Your Mother and I still feel such a loss. Loosing a daughter is something that no Mother wants to experience. I know you will never be forgotten by your's. Shannon it has been just about a year since you left and it will be a year on Oct. 13th when Barby left us. I am so glad that I have your Mom to talk to. She means the world to me. I wish I could have met you because I think we would have hit it off quite well. Girl, this will be your first heavenly birthday. What a party that will be.
Love,
Cookie
Patricia Fox
August 29, 2008
Dear Shannon,
It is hard to believe it has almost been a year since you took your journey and met Granny Doris again. Your Mom's heart has really had to heal but I think Nate has helped in only ways a grandchild can. He is really getting big and is so very special. Stephanie, Jeff, and Eric also miss you and I know your Mom thinks of you daily.
We try to make the days a little easier for your Mom especially on holidays when families gather together. I wish you peace and hope you have found it visiting with Granny Doris in the ever after.
We love you Shannon and miss you.
Beverly Leffingwell
August 29, 2008
Hi Shannon - it's mom! You know I find I'm missing you at the oddest of times! There's a store here that Steph and I frequent when she is home - Rock, Paper Scissors - it's in old town. It's a stationery store like the ones in Lawrence, Ks. The first time I went in there EVERYTHING I saw I thought, "....Shannon would love this". I had to leave the store. You would so be enjoying this election - we would be emailing back and forth constantly - I miss your quick witt and humor so much! You know I was emailing Steph this morning that I used to be very funny and witty like you when I was younger. So often humor hurts but yours never did - you were special. Night before last Bill Clinton gave a wonderful speech - it was so nice to hear someone speak who could say more than three words per sentence and could pronounce all the words correctly. You would just be loving this. And guess what? Bush's ratings are in the freak'n toilet! Just like we both knew they would be before it was over.
It's been a year and I want you back dammit! I want you back! Come see me sometime - o.k.? Love Mom
Nancy Shawver
August 26, 2008
Dear Bev, Stephanie, and Eric,
I will always have an empty space in my heart with the loss of Shannon. I think of her often. I told this story at Shannons' funeral however there are many who visit this websight who were unable to attend, so I thought I would repeat it for the benefit of those unable to attend.
It was the Christmas season, here in Colorado. A very happy time, my first Granddaughter, Michelle, was about to be baptized, and Shannon was the Godmother. My daughter, Tammy, and Shannon, and Michelle were in the bedroom dressing Michelle for the blessed event. I was in another room, but could hear the conversation going on in the bedroom between Shannon, Tammy, and Michelle. I heard Shannon talking to baby Michelle, she said " OK, Michelle this is your mother, and I am your Godmother, you can call her Mother, and you can call me God." We all laughed so very hard.
Shannon you brought such joy and laughter to all of our lives and memories. You will always be a part of my life, I think of you often. I love you so very much, Aunt Nancy
Tammy, Mike and Michelle Smith
August 22, 2008
Shannon was my oldest cousin. We shared in almost everything we did in our lives. Sometimes we fought, but most of the time we got along very well. My fondest memory of Shannon is when we were kids, we used to sing and dance to Grease Lightning of course she always got to be John Travolta. As adults I chose her to be the God Mother of my daughter Michelle. It was her duty to dress her for the Baptism , and it just baffled her to put on the oh so very small "panty hose" for such a small girl. It was so funny. Shannon, I miss you and so can't believe you are gone for a year already. I love you!
Julie Caster
January 10, 2008
My name is Julie C. I knew Shannon for several months in Kansas City a couple of years ago. Shannon was a funny, witty great person to be around for the short time i knew her. I am so very sorry to hear that she is no longer with us. Please accept my sincere sympathy for your loss.
Bobbye Puckett
November 9, 2007
Bev, I have read all Shannon's entry's. They read a lot like Barby's. Don't you just know that they would have been the best of friends if they had the chance. Barby had a gift to make people laugh and so did Shannon. Can you just not see the two of them together and the laughter we would have had? Our lose and God's gain. We know there will be laughter in Heaven.
We both will survive the lose of our two beautiful daughter's.
Cookie
Sean O'Connor
October 10, 2007
Bev, I just heard today about Shannon from Stephanie. My heart cries for you, Steph, and everyone else Shannon had touched in her life. I can't tell you the last time that I've cried for anyone but it is almost a unique Occurrence. I only cry anymore when the world loses a truly good person. I can proudly say that it was my pleasure and honor to have spent what time I did meeting Shannon at Steph's wedding to Jeff. I tended to spend all of my free time getting to know you and Shannon back then in Newport. I bettered myself having known your and your daughters, Beverly. Still, the world seems that much a dimmer place for it's loss of Shannon. The glimmer arising though is the star of hope and good that continue to be her legacy. May her works and deeds be forever known and revered. And now in this time of sadness I seek the thing that always lifts my heart. I go to look at the picture you took of me in your wide brimmed pink hat from Stephanie's wedding. Good times. Good times. God bless you and keep you, Bev, Steph, and all those whom meant so much to Shannon.
Charlie Walker
September 21, 2007
Beverly,
I was out of town, and just learned, this morning, of your loss. Although I didn't know your daughter, I know you, and from the entries here I know she must have been an amazing woman. You must be so proud of her and I know you have a lifetime of wonderful memories. Nobody can ever take that from you. I pray you feel God's hand of peace on you to guide you through these first days of loss. Thinking of you and yours,
Your friend at work
Catherine Skelton
September 16, 2007
I wish to offer my condolences to Shannon's family. I went to law school with Shannon. In thinking of her, I am reminded of one of my father's favorite quotes from the Bible: "As you do unto the least of these, you do unto me". I can think of no higher praise than to say she was imbued with just such a sense of service. Pax Vobiscum.
Sincerely,
Catherine
Craig and Debra Perbeck
September 13, 2007
Beverly and Family,
I was saddened to learn of your loss. I will remember Shannon's smile and her positive approach to life. The notes written here show that she made a positive impact in the lives of the people she met. Shannon will live on through the lives she has touched. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Jeff Rank
September 10, 2007
Stephanie and I have long discussed the need for our son to have a relationship with the members of our extended family, and perhaps most especially our sisters, who bring a unique and exceptional perspective on this world we live in. In grieving Shannon’s passing I cannot help but concede that perhaps in some selfish way I also grieve the loss of having her in Nate’s life, and the possibility of how that relationship might have fostered and grown. Instead we will have to find the words to attempt to explain to Nathanial how sometimes cruel and unpleasant things can impact the lives of the most lovely and giving people, and although he won’t remember his brief encounters with Shannon he will know of the tremendous good that she accomplished during her life and the difference she made.
It was a hard decision for us to have me remain in England with Nathanial when what we really wanted was to be a part of the observance of Shannon’s life and to be with my new family and friends, and especially Stephanie, during this difficult time. My heart goes out to everyone impacted by this tragic event and at the loss we have all suffered.
Joyce & Jeff Rank
September 8, 2007
Dear Bev, Jules and family,
As new members of Stephanies family are so sorry for this lost to the family. We only met Shannnon & Jules last year at our Son's marriage to Stephanie. After reading some of the entries in this guest book, I'm so sorry that we didn't have the time to really get to know her better, and to share some laughs together.
All our love, Joyce and Jeff
Freida Smith
September 8, 2007
Because, you, Shannon were of such great worth and joy to us all, words are of little comfort at a time like this. The emptiness is overwhelming. Shannon, your Southern Mama will miss you dearly. You have touched all so deeply who have crossed your path, and your smile, warmth, and compassion will genuinely be missed. Godspeed, my darling.
Kevin & Hilda Roberts
September 6, 2007
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time.
Carrie Rivera
September 6, 2007
We will certainly miss Shannon and her fantastic sense of humor. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow.
Much love, Carrie, David, Ethan and Megan Rivera
Marcia (Sherman) Nordstrom
September 6, 2007
Beverly, I read about Shannon last night at the Library and I can't tell you how devastated I felt. It is like losing one of my own kids.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I am trying to make arrangements to get off Friday.
Rachel & Kelly Vogel
September 6, 2007
The love Shannon and Jules share will forever endure. I can't express enough how beautifully you taught Kelly that love is love and that "mates" are forever. We will never forget her humor and wit. She will live forever in our hearts. May peace be with both of you. Love always,
Jen and Pam
September 6, 2007
Jules,
I'm so sorry Pam and I lost touch with you and weren't there to help you and Shannon. Shannon is very dear to both of us and a great loss to the world. Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. Love, Jen and Pam
Linda Scott
September 6, 2007
Jules, I worked with Shannon at TimberLake, as one of her night nurses and was so very sorry to hear of her death. She was a very fun patient to have and one that leaves a lasting memory in your heart for many reasons. I know your devotion to her kept her determined to get well. God bless you and keep you!
Laurie (Shaffer) Logan
September 6, 2007
Bev,
I am so sorry for your loss. Shannan grew up to be a great person. I remember babysitting for her and Stephanie. Those were fun times. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Margaret Hearne
September 6, 2007
Beverly & Family,
Having just read in the newspaper of Shannon's passing, I'm sending along deepest heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.
I can't imagine your pain at this most difficult time. It seems to me that we; as parents, believe it will be our children burying us, and not the other way around.
I remember Shannon as being such a cute and well-behaved little girl, when you lived in Ark City. Doris often spoke proudly of Shannon, and ALL her grandchildren. I know that she loved them all very much. She would share photos and keep me informed on their accomplishments. I visited with Doris quite often, and enjoyed her friendship for many, many years. She would keep me up on the latest when you all were living in Great Bend. I really believe Shannon is rejoicing in heaven RIGHT NOW, with her Grandma Doris.
I want you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Stay close to one another and to God. Peace be with all of you, and God Bless.
Sincerely,
Margaret Hearne
Roma Jean Turner
September 5, 2007
Dear Bev, you know you and yours are in my thoughts and prayers. Cousin Marion sends her love. I plan to be at the funeral Friday.
Alison Harrington (Morrison)
September 5, 2007
To Shannon's family, I cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. Shannon was a great person. I and my family have know Shannon since grade school. We were neighbors growing up in Great Bend. One of my memories of Shannon was playing covered wagons in our backyard and building forts together, we had such fun. Her smile and laugh will be missed.
Blain Hildreth
September 5, 2007
Beverly and family, please know that I have you in my thoughts and prayers.
Tracey (Newton) Dickey
September 5, 2007
I worked with Shannon as a Social Work colleague and adored her. Her humor was side-splitting. She would sometimes call me at one of my clinics and pretend to be a DJ from a local station convincing me that I had won something... I fell for it everytime!
The other side of her was her compassion and respect for the underdog. She championed those in need and I so respected her. She was the best and her social work colleagues in dialysis will miss her.
Anita Marie Lara-Mendoza
September 5, 2007
My Dearest Bev. You WILL make it thru this. God gives us only what He knows we can handle. You are a very strong person and a very loving Mother. And I have no doubt you will overcome this tradegy.... with time... and prayer. May God be with you and I will Pray for your Family. I'm so very sorry. All of CSE are thinking of you.
Greg Leffingwell
September 5, 2007
Aunt Bev, Stephanie and Eric:
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you. We love you all.
Greg, Susan and Lauren
Dana Williams
September 4, 2007
When thinking back on my days of teaching Jr. High one person who often comes to mind is Shannon. Full of energy and frovality! Every time she left my classroom she'd say, "Bye-Bye, that's backward for Bye-Bye!" She made me laugh everytime! Shannon you will be missed!
Gayle O'Connor
September 4, 2007
Jules, your devotion and love for Shannon, and hers for you, were very touching things to witness the last few months.
Susan Kanoy
September 4, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss, Shannon and I had a great time working together and pulling jokes on each other. I will always have happy thoughts about Shannon
Whitney Cattle
September 4, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends. I remember when I first met Shannon and I thought and still think that she was one of the truly amazing women I met at the time that I met her. May God be with you and all of us when we say good bye to Shannon on Friday. I will do my best to be at the funeral on Friday afternoon.
Pamela Worden-Mayo
September 4, 2007
Beverly, please know that your "work family" is thinking of you at this time of sorrow.
Terry La Fontaine Smith
September 4, 2007
To Jule's and the rest of Shannon's family: I cannot fully express the deep sorrow and sympathy I have over the death of Shannon. I am so grateful I met Shannon and our paths crossed. Shannon's willingness to sharing part of her life story and fears with me, allowed me to release and heal alot of my own. Shannon had a gift to help others see the humor and beauty in life - even in the worst of times. She gave encouragement and comfort to myself and others; she did shine light in darkness so I could see and believe there was value and hope for me. Shannon made a hugh possitive impact on me in a short time. May she be at Peace. With sympathy and love, Terry La Fontaine Smith
CINDY HAWKINS
September 4, 2007
SORRY FOR YOUR LOST
I WILL BE THERE ON FRIDAY
LOVE YOU CINDY
Jim Goebel
September 4, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with Shannon's family and friends. Accept our sincere condolences for the loss of your loved one.
The Atlas AJ Team
Debbie Rogers
September 4, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss.
Debbie Rogers( Tauscher)
harold Tauscher
September 4, 2007
Sorry we can't make it down there from Chicago ..
We will miss you Shannon.
Uncle Harry and Cousins Debbie and Danielle
Tauscher
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