James Dewain Shannon

August 21, 1936 - October 8, 2025
With hearts full of love and gratitude, we remember and celebrate the life of Jim Shannon, dedicated man of God, devoted husband, cherished father, gifted musician, and beloved friend. He passed away peacefully on October 8th, 2025, ready to reunite with his wife Janet and the many family and friends who have preceded him in death. As a Presbyterian minister, he touched countless lives through words and music. A proud Lieutenant Commander in the Navy, he served for 20 years as a chaplain throughout the country and world, providing comfort and guidance to service members and their families. His time in the Navy included two tours in Vietnam with the SeaBees of NMCB 40. In addition to his military career, he served as pastor and music director at multiple churches as well as a chaplain in long term care centers. He was also active in the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area for many years. A passionate pianist, entertainer, and teacher, he brought the joy of music to people of all ages for over 70 years. From his first band, Jimmy Banana and his Bunch ("Music with Apeel"), he continued to pursue music throughout his life, including the Somers Isle Jazz Band in Bermuda, visits to schools as "Professor Piano", and solo and band performances at venues throughout the Twin Cities. He also taught piano lessons to children and adults, was a member of The Hymn Society, and used his vast knowledge of hymnology to help compile the Armed Forces Hymnal. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather; a steady and wise presence who embodied humor, patience, and love. He loved buttered toast, bananas, Diet Coke, Bob Newhart, flashy suspenders, Chevy Suburbans, the Star Tribune, corny jokes, and being a Minnesotan. He never stopped learning, laughing, or sharing his love through music and service. His legacy lives on in every life he touched. A funeral service will be held at Oak Grove Presbyterian Church, 2200 Old Shakopee Road, Bloomington, MN, 11am Wednesday Oct 22 (visitation 1 hour prior). Livestream of the service available at www.oakgrv.org. Reception to follow, with procession to Ft. Snelling cemetery for interment with military honors. Memorials may be made to Oak Grove Presbyterian Church. Fair winds and following seas. We'll miss your music, humor, patience, and guidance.