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BORN
1962
DIED
2018
David Shannon Obituary
Newark - August 4, 1962 - September 13, 2018
"There are but two lasting bequests
we can give our children
The First is Roots and the Last is Wings."
This quote was a favorite between Dave and his Mother, Lois Shannon. Dave's "roots" were beginning as he enjoyed the leadership and friendships formed from Marne United Methodist Church, Little League, Scouts, Ultimate Campers, High School and 4H Bands and Claylick Bow Hunters. Then the "roots" grew further at Madison Elementary School, Licking Valley High School and Licking County JVS (Class of 1981) and Zane State College. Lasting bonds were formed with co workers from Owens-Corning Granville, General Motors Mansfield….and across the country as an over the road truck driver and a fueler on the North Slope of Alaska.
His love of water began in the family pond where he learned to swim before he learned to walk! His career started with Black Hand Gorge Canoe Livery and after high school his "wings" formed as he began an amazing journey as a whitewater Boatman, Instructor and Guide. North American River Runners was the beginning and led to rivers across the United States including the Grand Canyon, Alaska and unchartered rivers in Mexico.
He was a true outdoorsman and loved the time he spent in the woods, hunting, fishing, kayaking, woodworking, and sailing in Florida.
Dave lived more life than most of us ever will…we were awed and inspired by his many adventures…his love of nature…and his bravery in always trying something completely new and unknown.
His very special nephew, Brian Steen, had a special hat made that said "My Uncle Will NOT say uncle!!" And this was very true. But after a year-long battle with cancer…on his way to Ohio from his home in Sterling Alaska …Dave passed peacefully with his family and wonderful staff from the beautiful Legacy Hopewell House in Portland Oregon by his side.
Great memories never stop…Fly High Davie and spread your "Wings"…
Dave has begun his new adventures into unexplored rivers and mountaintops…
he will be waiting to someday share them with you.
Love and Hugs from him and us.
Dave is survived by his Mother Lois (Stough) Shannon, Sister and Brother- In-Law Pam and Dean Frazier and Nephew Brian Steen. Numerous cousins, extended family and one ornery cat called "Ms. America" .
He was preceded in death by his Father, Darwin D. Shannon.
We are so grateful for all of Dave's countless friends across the country and "Brothers, Sisters and Soulmates from the River Community". A "Celebration of Life" is planned for mid-November in West Virginia and for Alaska at a later date.
There are no "local services" planned.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Shannon
Steve Kreim
June 24, 2021
Cheat River Festival 2003
Steven Kreim
June 23, 2021
Please accept my belated sympathy on the passing of Dave. I first met him on our afternoon bus ridesway to Madison school from JVS and Newark Catholic...he was a kind soul and very genuine. Many years later I met Ernie Grimm who introduced myself and others to kayaking on local rivers, and he would talk frequently of Dave's abilities...was wondering if it was the same Dave and sure enough it was him. I got to see Dave a few times during the Cheat River Festival weekends, and spend time around the fire with he and his friends. It was always an honor and a privilege.
Attached is a photo I took at Cheat Fest 2003 when he was heading out to guide a trip down the Cheat Canyon...his 4th Class V run in less than 48 hours. He was an amazing person and you have my deepest sympathy.
Steven Kreim
June 23, 2021
Please accept my belated sympathy on the passing of Dave. I first met him on our afternoon bus ridesway to Madison school from JVS and Newark Catholic...he was a kind soul and very genuine. Many years later I met Ernie Grimm who introduced myself and others to kayaking on local rivers, and he would talk frequently of Dave's abilities...was wondering if it was the same Dave and sure enough it was him. I got to see Dave a few times during the Cheat River Festival weekends, and spend time around the fire with he and his friends. It was always an honor and a privilege.
Attached is a photo I took at Cheat Fest 2003 when he was heading out to guide a trip down the Cheat Canyon...his 4th Class V run in less than 48 hours. He was an amazing person and you have my deepest sympathy.
Scott Shannon
December 12, 2018
Cousin Dave, it's been a very long time... as kids we had lots of fun, fishing and other stuff at our grand-parents farm! There was no better place to be as kids, hanging out with cousins, aunts and uncles, parents and grandparents. I remember we did lots of fishing and had lots of fun when we were kids running around the farm. I remember a wild ride on a tandem bike with you from your house to the rodeo down the road from your house. Good times. I wish we stayed in touch as we got older, my fault, but we will see each other again some day buddy.
Jean Shannon DeOreo
December 11, 2018
One of my favorite cousins! You will be missed so much by so many!! Miss our days of playing pool and you teaching me how to use a compound bow! God Bless you and your family!
Jean Shannon DeOreo
Getting ready for our last paddle together in the Okefenokee.
Gregory PFLUG
October 19, 2018
Dave in his element
Gregory PFLUG
October 19, 2018
Doug Hartfield
October 19, 2018
My heartfelt sympathies to Lois, Pam and family. I have many fond memories of our family over the years and you are all certainly a part of that. David was a really good man and a kind soul and I'm thankful we all had a chance to reacquaint visiting, telling stories and looking at genealogy when David was visiting from Alaska.
Love Doug and Johanna
Dave Nihiser
October 17, 2018
Tight lines, Dave.
October 16, 2018
Dave was a giant in my book--a heroic person and a friend I trusted with my life. And we had laughs--Lordy. We had laughs and sweet times. A rare, incredible friend.
Arlene Hines
October 15, 2018
So sorry for your loss. Dave was a terrific person, as all the Shannons are. Hugs to all.Arlene Fleming Hines
Cinny Sabo
October 14, 2018
Pam and family, I am so sorry to hear about your brothers passing. The last time I saw you we discussed his adventures and home in Alaska. Take comfort in knowing he lived life to the fullest. Take care and hope to see you soon.
Tim and Carol White
October 14, 2018
Daves inner light will never fade.
James Fleming
October 14, 2018
Lois and Family.
May God Give You Comfort and healing of this great loss.
Love And Prayers.
Jim& Bev Fleming.
Rob Romine
October 14, 2018
To Mother Lois and Shannon family. I'm so sorry for the passing of Dave. I was Dave's barber for years, whenever he would come home from his many adventures. I loved listening to the many stories he experienced in his travels in his life . He was kind, soft spoken and very intelligent. A true mountain man . I considered Dave a truly good friend. I will miss him very much. Prayers to each one of you. God Bless.
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