"Aloha `oe Ke aloha Shannon" (Farewell to you, beloved Shannon)
It is with a very heavy heart that this blog has been created, in memory of our friend Shannon Maile McCue, whose life was tragically cut short this past weekend. Shannon's time on Earth ended much too soon; she is now in Heaven where she will send us rainbows of joy and hope forever.
We will all miss Shannon's terrific smile, easy going "island style" and generous nature.
Shannon was always smiling, cheerful and full of life. She was a talented and creative person who worked hard and tried to learn something new everyday. A native of Hawaii, she loved the natural beauty of her home and lived the spirit of aloha everyday. Shannon would often speak lovingly of her family and how much she looked forward to her trips home to the islands.
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During her career at Border's Books and Music, she developed an excellent knowledge of music, which was her passion-particularly Jazz and Hawaiian music. Four years ago Shannon joined PETCO and quickly learned the pet industry, where she earned the respect of her co-workers and vendors. Shannon had many friends at PETCO and brought a bit of sunshine to the office everyday. Shannon had many nicknames at work: "Q-Dawg", "Shanno-Mc", "Hawaiian Woman" and more recently, "Feather Queen". Shannon was a beautiful flower in our lives, one which will always be blooming and fragrant.********************************************************
Psalm 23
* The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
.* Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
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* You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
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* Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
* You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
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* Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
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Here are some of the wonderful comments I received about Shannon the day we all heard the sad news: .
"Shannon was one of the loveliest people I have known, and a wonderful asset to PETCO..."
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"...We loved Shannon as did all of the PETCO family, our hearts are broken..."
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"..Everyone at our company commented on what a great person she was as both a
colleague and friend. She will truly be missed.".
"Shannon always possessed an amazing cheery attitude, a great smile and witty sense of humor that will certainly be missed. She was truly one of a kind and I enjoyed the opportunity to work with her. She brought the spirit of aloha with her wherever she went. I feel blessed to have known her. me ke aloha menemene (with sympathy)"
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"...I just can't stop seeing Shannon's smiling face and hearing her laugh"
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"...She was a wonderful woman and a class act. I felt like I knew her a long time from the very first time I met her. I really liked her a lot"
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"...She was a sweet girl with a nice relaxing Hawaiian spirit. I will miss her as I know everyone around PETCO will as well."
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"Shannon was a truly delightful, sincere person with a smile that lit up any room. Our hearts go out to her family and friends"
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"...She was the only other person in corporate wearing a flower behind her ear. I have looked up to Shannon in a professional light and am so thankful for the friendship I had with Shannon outside of work as well. After both recently joining the outrigger canoe club, it was that Hawaii girl at heart that really came out..."
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"Shannon, your bright smile and sunny disposition made the world a better place. It is an honor to have had a niece like you and you will be missed but always remembered. May angels usher you home." -Uncle Ed
Photos with Shannon
These photos below were taken earlier in the day on Saturday May 10th 2008. Shannon was a member of the Oceanside Outrigger Canoe Club, which she loved so much. The photo below right is Shannon paddling in front of Katia:
This photo below was always on Shannon's desk at PETCO. It was in a frame that read: "beautiful heart, gentle spirit, caring smile" It is of her family back in Hawaii:
Aloha Shannon, you are now "Malu lani" (protected by Heaven).
Share your favorite memory or story of Shannon
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Mahalo
212 comments:
1 – 200 of 212 Newer› Newest»Shannon- we will all miss you so much, thank you for touching our lives.
-Rick
Shannon we will miss you very much. I had so much respect for you and admired you more than you will know.
Yesterday I could not help but think about the "girl with the flower in her hair"! That is the way that I will always remember her...she was a lovely spirit, and full of new ideas. It was a pleasure to have worked with her over the years, and it seems impossible that she is no longer here with us. All my best wishes to her family, and to all her PETCO colleagues...I know she left an impact and will be very much missed.
We loved working with Shannon becuase of her possitive attitude and her great smile. Shannon will be missed way longer than the time we new her. When we had a meeting with Shannon we new it was going to be a great day!
Shannon, from the moment I met you, I felt the sense and aura of calm and confidence that surrounded you. You passed this to those you encountered and shared your precious time with. Thank you for this and know it will endure as your gift to us. I know you will share this will all in Heavan.
You will be missed dearly. You brought smiles to many around you every day!
Shannon was and will continue to be a beam of sunshine as bright as from her home state of Hawaii in my mind.
She represented an incredible beauty and I know she will be missed by too many people to consider. To anyone who reads this, know that I share in your loss and will conitnue to think of the good things she was and will be in our hearts.
I too can’t stop hearing that infectious laugh and seeing that smile. It never seemed like she was at work -always enjoying life and the people around her -a one of a kind true friend. A pure soul. It was a great honor to have known such a magnificently wonderful person. You were very loved.
My sincere condolences to her friends and family. I had only met Shannon briefly once or twice at PETCO in passing. She sounds like a wonderful woman with a beautiful spirit......
I had the pleasure of knowing, working and having fun with Shannon over the years in both Michigan (Borders) and San Diego (Petco). She had one of the most vibrant souls you will ever encounter. With so much positive energy, you could not help but just smile and go along for the ride. I have so many great and fond memories of her that I’m not even sure where to begin. I hope some of the pictures I share below will help convey some of those memories and put a smile on all our faces. She was a special soul that will be truly missed.
I miss you Shannon. I'm so very grateful to have had our time with you in the desert....one last time.
Shannon will truly be missed by all who knew her. Her infectious smile and possitive outlook was always a joy to be around.
Shannon will be greatly missed. I have to echo the sentiments of those posting before me, and add that her joy in life was infectious. It was almost impossible to feel down in her presence. God bless you Shannon.
Wow,it was just last week when I spoke with the Hawaiian queen. I too will miss her smile. The ULUTU family send there Love for you and we will see you where the sun comes up. Mahalo-------- Aina.
Shannon touched us all at a deeply human level. Her grace, smile, and gentle heart made anyone feel instantly at ease and welcome. Her sense of fun was palpable and her magnetism was irresistible. Those of you who worked with her (as I did at Borders) know you took any opportunity to spend time with her throughout the day as she brought a happy centering to what otherwise was a stressful situation. I always looked for her in the lunch room hopping to get a few minutes of joy to recharge my soul. Her passion for all things Hawaiian fueled many of our conversations as she explained the subtle differences in slack key tuning. She was a great cultural ambassador of her home State to the mainland. I learned a lot from her. She was also the first person to ever play me A Very Very Yellow Christmas by Yellow man. I can still remember the soft Christmas lights in her apartment, and the small group of friends skanking to the reggae rhythm as her eyes glinted with the sheer joy of the moment. Friends like her are far too few in this world and I feel blessed to have known her. To her family, I'm so sorry for your loss. I only knew her for a brief moment while you had your whole life to experience the breadth of her personality and love. I can only imagine how hard this is for you. Please know we are praying for you and hoping you have a strength in God that sustains you now. Huge hugs from Tennessee to you.
Leslie Rollins
You were a bright smiley spot in a corporate world :) We will miss you and working with you Shannon.
Our thoughts go out to your family and loved ones.
Shannon, you will never be forgotten in our hearts and minds – you have made an everlasting imprint on our lives. Your love for life was contagious, as was your smile and your personality that shined so bright. I loved listening to talk about your family and how much you loved and admired them. I will always picture your beautiful smile and the flowers you wore in your hair. My prayers go out to your family and friends as we try to endure the pain of loosing you so early.
Julie - The Greenies Company
Shannon was a wonderful person with such a huge heart. She always had such a positive and happy attitude. She was a great joy to work with and will be missed very much! I send my condolences to her family.
the girl who loved her toes in the sand... a true hawaii girl at heart. such a classic personality that will be missed. her love for music was undeniable, her passion for laughter and fun was evident, her compassion for the ocean... its the legacy that shannon has left behind. miss you girl.
Shannon and I shared many fabulous conversations about Hawaii. My family being hawaiian and her being a native of the island we shared something most wouldn't understand. Shannon was one of a kind. Her smile was so vibrant,her persoanlity was so electric. When Shannon was in the room is was hard not to admire her beautiful presence. Shannon - it is tragic that you are gone but you will live on in our memories and I will never forget you my Hawaiian girlfriend.
Shannon was so genuine. She always took the time to stop and say a warm hello to me. She had a way about her that always made me feel so special; in the office or at an event. Shannon had so much style. Her lovely way with people and her glowing smile (evident in all of the photos here) will be missed a lot. I hope that each and everyone of us will take the time to "celebrate her life" on some level. I know that in her very Shannon Way - She has certainly touched every one of us.
Wishing her family a lot of love now and forever!
I have only spoke to Shannon a couple times at work, but reading all the great stories and memories of Shannon, I wish I was able to get to know her better. She seems like she was a wonderful person to be around and a person that everyone loved. My condolences to Shannon's family and friends. You will be missed.
Shannon,
In the short time I knew you, you left a lasting impression. One of happiness and caring. One of big, wide smiles and incredible belly laughs. One of heart warming joy. You were all of these things and more.
To say you will be missed doesn't even come close to describing the sense of loss I feel.
The world needs more people like Shannon McCue...
Shannon...Mahalo for welcoming me here at Petco. It's good to have a fellow Islander here at work. ...I know you're smiling over us ~"somewhere over the rainbow". Aloha.
Shannon was truly a wonderful person to work with and be around. When I cam to the office she was always so willing to teach me and help me understand things because of her caring and understanding nature. As we have worked closer over the time her warm demeanor, caring personality, and strong character always shined brightly behind her beautiful smile and sweet laughter. I will miss her poking her head around my cube just to say hello in the morning or when she just stop by to say "Hey RT, waz up?". You will truly be missed amongst us all. Mahalo for your friendship.
It was my first time introducing myself to Shannon last week and now she was gone... Eventhough i don't know her that well, I know that she was a good person...
My sincere condolences to her family and loved ones. I pray that God will comfort them in this time of grief.
Aloha Shannon:
When Shannon first came to PETCO, we hit it off right away as I saw the flower in her hair and learned she was from Hawaii. You see, I have been to Hawaii numerous times and someday hope to live there so we always talked about Hawaii. Last summer, I took another trip to Oahu, and this time, Shannon told me of a beach she loved to go to for body surfing. She told me it was on the South shore past the marine aquarium. She said look for the lighthouse on top of the mountain and across from this you will find the beach. I was with my teenaged boys and of course we got lost and had to ask locals the location of the lighthouse. They laughed at us as they gave us directions. We finally made it to the most beautiful beach and had one of the greatest days. I will always remember her for this memory in Oahu. And anytime that you visit Oahu and want a great beach with awesome waves, go to the lighthouse on the South Shore and you will surely meet Shannon's spirit there.
God Bless Shannon and her family and friends. Aloha,
Janet Cogdill
Shannon will be missed...my thoughts an prayers go out to her friends and family. May the grief they suffer be transformed into joy for they had the pleasure of knowing her.
Shannon,
You had an amazing ability to make everyone smile...all I had to do was walk past your desk and my day was instantly a little brighter.
I am lucky to have had you as a friend.
I'll miss you.
MS
I first met Shannon when she started at PETCO in 2004. Immediately I loved her smile and willingness to jump in and figure out this monster called PETCO. This island girl fit in right away with the main land gang and was like a long lost daughter or sister to us all.
Shannon was truly like a beam of sunshine from Hawaii. Always spreading happiness and joy to others that she encountered in her life.
We are all better for having had Shannon in our life and I know that she is someones guarduan angel now and making their life better as well.
She will forever be in our hearts.
Shannon, you had the amazing ability to apply the Aloha spirit in everything you touched. We all take life too seriously sometimes and a conversation with you, no matter how brief or how long, reminded me to put everything into perspective. Mahalo for all the joy you brought to our lives. Your spirit will be missed greatly.
Shannon, I went through my many pictures of my days at PETCO and was so happy to find a few shots of you from the 2005 Petco golf tournament. Your pictures made me smile as your smile was always so infectious- you were a beautiful and unique spirit. We are all so lucky to have had the precious time we did with you.
I found the following and thought it was so appropriate for Shannon.
"`A`ohe lokomaika`i i nele i ke pâna`i. (Translation) No kind deed has ever lacked its reward.
Hawaiians are known for their generosity, hospitality
and warm sharing. This giving nature is grounded in the principle of reciprocity. When given, the Hawaiian will give back in equal measure or more, be it a gift or a smile. "
Shannon you were a ray of sunshine at the office and God really gave you an amazing ability and charm with people that will be missed. May the Lord bless your family and comfort them with his love, grace, and promises in His word to fill their hearts with hope eternal during this time.
John 15-17
That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
When I think of Shannon, all I can think of is smiles and happiness. In the years I've known her, I can't think of a single frown or unhappy moment. Her presence made any gathering memorable and fun. Maybe that's why it's so easy to remember all the great times. I will always remember Shannon from our first non-work party; it was Halloween and she was dressed up in a Xanadu-like, Angel costume complete with Roller-skates of course. All night, she rolled around and made people smile.
The loss of Shannon hit me (and I'm sure all who knew her) in the deepest place in my heart. The world has lost an amazing source of happiness and she will be so sorely missed.
Shannon, you were a breath of fresh air at Petco and were always charming and delightful to talk to about any topic.
You will be missed and I know you will be smiling from the heavens.
ALOHA
Dearest Shannon, I don't want to believe you're gone.
I had the great joy of working closely with Shannon for several years. For some time we shared a cube wall. I was fortunate to be able to bring my dog "J" in with me. He was positively mad about her. Whenever he heard her radiant voice he would go nuts and was not content till she came over and gave him a belly rub. I have another knickname for her: "Scratchy Finger Lady". An odd one perhaps, but she embraced it. She called him "J-Bird", or just "The Bird". This connection is further testament to that inner glow in her we all loved so much.
The world is richer place for her life and much sadder place for her loss. No words suffice, the tears fall like rain. We will love you forever.
Tom Hauck
Jeanie-Shannon you will be missed
deeply. It was such a pleasure knowing you. And everyone will miss your smile.
Shannon was a beautiful spirit with a contagious smile and an undeniable laugh that will forever tickle my soul.
You’ll be missed Shannon, but never forgotten.
It's very rare that a person can exude such a genuine heart even to a stranger. I talked to her a couple of times and I can honestly say that she's that type of person wjere you can already see how amazing she is without even really knowing her.
"Silent, but Violent"... she said with a devious smile. Shannon, I will always remember you for your wonderful, off-the-wall sense of humor.
I hate the thought of not getting any more memorable Shannonisms.
Troy Petersen
Shannie Mac,
You were without a doubt one of the most beautiful human beings I've ever met. You were radiant, full of life and you're aura was simply breathtaking.
I'm so glad you touched my life as I'm sure you made everyone else's better as much as mine. I'm so proud to be able to call you my friend. Today the World lost an Angel, the most beautiful of angels.
I hope you're riding that eternal wave to happiness and "mahalo" for giving us you're everything.
I'll miss you kiddo.
You're fellow Islander....
Kiki
Shannon, even though I was only beginning to know you, you have touched my life. You always wore a smile and opened your mind to what I had to say. You were an amazing person that helped others grow. You will always be remembered with hearts filled of joy. We all loved you! Shelly
Shannon will be missed by everyone- she had really touched my life over the last year, I/ we lost a great friend- person- business woman, a real class act... way too soon, it is our loss- my prayers to all of her family and friends.
Shannon, my tradeshow roommate, my Karaoke co-star, may God and his angels take you under their wings and help you soar through Heaven with glory. I miss you very much and I can’t wait to see you again. Your spirit and sunshine will live on. Cari.
I knew Shannon for just a short time, but she truly did carry a bit of sunshine around everywhere she'd go. That great smile will be missed.
shannon, one of the friendliest faces at PETCO, we shared many laughs together. the world will surely be a little duller without you here. mahalo and god bless.
*britt trozzi*
Remarkable, smart, funny, brilliant and truly one of the best people I have ever met. Equally at home negotiating the sharpest price or relaxing with friends, Shannon always made everyone feel welcome and special.
The light that shines the brightest is the one we miss the most. You were taken from us too early but the spirit you left us will live on.
May your family find peace knowing how many lives you touched.
Aloha.
Always witty, fun, insightful and a joy to be around. You introduced me to new foods and music. I will forever remember you when I sit to enjoy a bowl of Pho soup.
I only met Shannon once but that was all you needed to be impressed with her smile, her laugh, her spirit, and her mind. Shannon was so sharp, so serene, and so pleasant. My heart goes out to all who knew her and cared about her.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Shannon's family and friends. She was a wonderful woman with the kindest smile. My deepest sympathies go out to all who knew and loved her.
Meg P.
Shannon - I'll never forget the day you brought me a Rockstar energy drink for helping you out with some project. You called me a "Rockstar" that day. That Rockstar stayed on my shelf the entire time I was at PETCO. The funny part about that is that I don't remember the project at all - just your cheery smile, and the sweet gesture. There's a lesson about life in that.
You and I worked at cross purposes at PETCO � you were trying to move merchandise around the stores, and I was trying to keep that at a minimum. In spite of that relationship, I always admired that you were so passionate and always so professional, respectful and kind during our interactions.
I am heartbroken for our loss. I am heartbroken for your family. I am heartbroken for you.
With love,
Priscilla Villanueva
Shannon – Your smile always made me smile and your laugh always brightened my day. You were an amazing woman, and will be missed by so many people, but never forgotten.
Aloha,
Bronwyn
I am stunned and saddened that Shannon is no longer with us.
She was fun to work with and every memory I have of her includes a flower behind her ear. When I worked in the office, she was always one to poke her head in and say hi whenever she passed by my cube.
She will be greatly missed and my sympathies go out to her family.
Lisa
Dearest Shannon,
It was my pleasure to be able to know you and work with you the past few years. You always had a smile to share and continued the "Aloha" spirit.
May God Bless and Keep your family.
John B
It was a real honor to know Shannon - she made this world a happier, brighter place with her smile and laughter. She will be greatly missed.
The warmth of Shannon’s smile and the song of her laughter will stay in my heart forever. Her love for all that was good helped others to see what was truly important. Shannon was a beautiful and brilliant ray of sunshine.
Thank you to Shannon's family for nurturing a beautiful person who was able to touch this world in a very special way.
Shannon will be missed so much but never forgotten.
Love, Jaime, Todd and Mia
You have touched so many of our lives and will be greatly missed. Your smile and spirit were contagious and I will never forget you....
Shannon, We will always remember you with a smile on your face; laughing, enjoying life to the fullest...as it should be. It was a pleasure knowing you.
Shannon has left behind a tremendous group of people who mourn her, not to mention a tragically unfulfilled future. We are devestated by this loss and send our condolences to her parents, her extended family, friends and her loving boyfriend Jeff. -- Whitney and Marc Zimet
Dear Shannon:
I enjoyed working with you every week. You were a positive energy at Petco. I really appreciated the extra effort that I received from you regarding all the requests that I threw your way and it was always with a smile.
You will be missed terribly.
Condolences to your family.
Brigid H.
Shannon,
When I heard the news of your passing, my heart stopped, head lowered and knew that the sun would no longer shine as bright.
I'd known you for a short time yet I could tell that you truely were special. Everyone speaks of your smile because they can still see it. And your laughter was contagious, I listen for your voice even now. I will miss your presence and your peaceful demeanor. You knew just what to say when things were stressful. Mahalo for that.
I will miss you very much.
Take care up there.
Aloha Shannon- you were one of the sweetest people I've ever known and I will definitely have a warm place in my heart for you forever.
I can only hope that when my daughters grow up into this world that they possess all of your amazing qualities as a person.
My Dear Gemini Friend Shannon, I am having a difficult time trying not to be so selfish to loose you in our lives. Your Aloha spirit gave us a connection that I truly loved and respected all the days and years we have known each other at work and outside of work. I will miss you so very much but understand that God needed you more on your mission through life.
Aloha au ia 'oe, Mahalo and A hui hou my friend. I love you, thank you, until we meet again my friend.
Deepest sympathy to Shannon's family and friends. Mahalo for bringing your spirit to our paddling ohana.
May your warm smile stay in the hearts of all those that share your love and friendship
Shannon brightened the lives of all who were lucky enough to know her. I will miss her kindness, wit, creativity, intelligence, and beauty but treasure the memory of a unique and wonderful spirit.
I am standing upon that foreshore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails in the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength and I stand and watch her until at length she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and the sky come down to mingle with each other. Then someone at my side says "there! She's gone!" "gone where?" "gone from my sight, that's all." She is just as large in mast and spar and hull as ever she was when she left my side; just as able to bear her load of living freight to the place of her destination. Her diminished size is in me, not in her. And just at that moment when someone at my side says, "there! She's gone!" There are other eyes watching her coming and other voices ready to take up the glad shout, "here she comes!" And that is dying. ~ Victor Hugo
Aloha Shannon, your life-spirit and joy-filled memory will never diminish.
In love, Lauren
Shannon burst into my booth at SuperZoo last year with energy, creativity and sincereity. Her smile instantly drew you into her enthusiastic and honest spirit. She laughed hysterically as she picked the names Smelly Cat, Scratchy Cat and Shaggy Cat with me and cried as we talked of our departed and much loved pets. I feel lucky to have had Shanon in my life. Her open and loving contribution to this world will stay with me forever. My heart is saddened for the this tremendous loss to her family, her loved ones her friends and the world. Her smile shines down on us all. Thank you Shannon.
Shannon:
One of my favorite memories of you is when we were at Ben and Natalie's Halloween party. You were dressed as an Angel on Roller Skates. I will never forget your smile. And I will miss you very much...
Love always,
Teri
What a joy it is to have had Shannon in our lives! Your smile and friendly "judibu" whenever we passed in the hallways of PETCO still rings in my heart, mind and soul. It was a pleasure working with you on the Food Team, you were always eager to get things done and to learn how to do it the best way. Only you could dream up pink and black fur on Cat furniture!
Even more memorable is your heart, so full of joy and love for life, and of course your smile.
To Shannon's family - my heart is praying for you even when I cannot find the words to speak. May you feel deeply the loving arms of God as He holds you through your sorrow. May He bring to your heart and mind sweet memories of your amazing daughter / sister to carry you through this life without her. May you know His love and grace. . .
Aloha Shannon
Shannon- we had movies to see and dinners to have...I'm sad our paths won't cross in the future. I loved that our conversation was always peppered with "hawaiian-isms". I remember when you left Borders to be closer to Hawaii and your family. I thought to myself, she's a wise woman, she knows what's important! You're upbeat attitude was always life-givingto people around you. Thank you for being my friend. With peace & love, Nancy
You will be the seventh paddler in lots of canoes from now on out.
I did not need to know Shannon to understand the person she was. These comments speak volumes. I am just so sad I did not get the opportunity to have memories of my own to share. Every day is precious.
Shannon -
You hullied into more cold, choppy water than most, but you always came back for more. You're a real inspiration. Mahalo. You will be missed.
Shannon,
To my friend who always enjoyed to laugh and smile! Who if you did not have a flower in your hair I did not recognize you, which truly fit your fun loving spirit! I truly can not believe that you are no longer on the earth but I know that we will all see you again on that great beach in the sky. We know you will be there because all the Angels will have flowers in their hair and smiles on their faces! I will miss you!
Tim Taft
Thank you for setting up this blog. It was a healing experience to read the message board and to feel the spirit of Shannon spring to life in everyone's comments.
I just feel so sad right now. Shannon was one of those people who brought so much light and happiness and laughter and perspective and fun and enthusiasm to the world that I feel a great loss -- not only for myself, but for everyone who had her in their lives, especially people who got to interact with her every day. There's just no replacing her or forgetting her. She was a one of a kind person.
Like so many others, when I think about Shannon, I first think of the sound of her laugh -- it would burst out unexpectedly, sometimes seeming to catch even Shannon off guard.
Secondly, I picture her with all her friends -- at a party, out at lunch, sitting in a cubicle, even in meetings. The pictures people have shared represent the Shannon I will always remember -- a Shannon standing among her friends, smiling, enjoying life, and having fun.
Shannon knew how to have a good time, and she didn't seek fun in an escapist kind of way, but in a "live life to the fullest" way. She taught me a lot as far as outlook on life and how to be a good friend to others.
I will always remember Shannon for the wonderful blessing that she was to me (and to so many others). My heart is heavy, but I am so glad that I had the chance to know her.
I want her family to know that we all treasured Shannon and thought she was an amazing person. My heart goes out to you and I am praying for God to stand alongside you and comfort you.
Our boat will forever miss our #5.
We will always have you in our hearts girl. Your smile will live on forever!!
Much love
Chris Ferguson
"our boats #3"
The first time Shannon and I paddled in the same boat we hulied. The picture I will always have is of her just back in the boat,water pouring off her hair, lips slightly purple with cold, and a radiant smile, almost a grin, that said there is no where in the world I would rather be right now.
I pray for comfort and peace for your family.
Princess Shannon is how I will always remember you. Your endless smile was contagious. Your endless energy, amazing. Your knack for looking at the glass half full, inspiring. Thank you, Shannon, for all your words of wisdom.
The Lord will keep her waiting happily until you join her.
Shannon, just look at your smile, I had the honor of being your coach for Oceanside Outrigger and what a treat that was. I’ll never forget you’re first Huli, your spirit, your attitude, your determination to not let me know how cold you really were. I’ll always remember when I looked over at you and asked “How You Doing” and you smiled that wonderful smile and said “I’m Great” Shannon you liar :) but you hung in there. At that moment I new I had a GEM. How honored I was to see your first race and I know your family would have been so proud to see the look on your face and that smile as your outrigger ohana welcomed you with open arms. Shannon you gave this club a breath of fresh air. Looking at the enthusiasm in your eyes reminded me why I love the ocean and outrigger racing. You will always have a place in the hearts of this team your Ohana away from home. Shannon Kipona Aloha and I would like to dedicate this song to you.
http://www.oceansideoutrigger.com/music/Kipona%20Aloha.mp3
Mahalo
Shannon butterflied past our life only once or twice, but her smile stayed. This is a terrible loss. Our sympathy goes out to all of you who will have to miss her.
I will always remember Shannon's constant smile, and always ready hello. You were never able to be anything other than impressed around her as she just emanated such peace and love of life.
To Shannon's family - my heart and prayers go out to you - just because she's gone - doesn't mean you didn't have the absolute best. Aloha Mary Stronach
Tears sprang from my eyes when I heard of Shannon's passing. Her joyous spirit and infectious smile were gifts she shared freely. Her passionate and caring nature touched all who met her. Mahalo Shannon, I am a better person for having known you.
Shannon is my cousin. We never were able to live very close to each other but the time we spent together was wonderful. Our family is devastated by the loss of such a beautiful young woman, inside and out. Thank you to everyone who has left these heartfelt messages. We will never forget her, Shannon's spirit will live on in each of us.
What a ray of sunshine everytime I saw you Shannon roaming those halls at Borders... God bless you and your family, your spirit and infectious smile will be missed
I sympathize with your loss,please accept my condolences.
(Order Entry at Multipet)
I only had the fortune of meeting and speaking to Shannon a few times but instantly I recognized her spirit. Her heart and soul always came across and she left a lasting impression! Without a doubt, she truly made this world a better place. God has called up another one of his Angels! My thoughts and prayers go out to Shannon's family and friends!!
This blog proves what a wonderful person that Shannon was. I had the great pleaseure of working with Shannon and she was an amazing help to me when I started at Borders. Her smile was amazing.
To Shannon's family my prayers anc heartfelt condolensces go out to you,she is gone from this world way too young....
Shannon was a true example of Aloha Spirit--sweet and kind to all. What I will remember most about Shannon is her laugh and amazing sense of humor. When I had plans to hang out with Shannon, I knew that I would be laughing.
I would like to thank her family for sharing her with us, she was a ray of sunshine! The world is a better place for having had Shannon in it.
Jenny
Shannon
I was a sincere admirer of your vast talents, additionally I admired your love of life and family. Your contagious, spirit will continue to live not only within me, but among us all. You will be missed, but not forgotten. I will cherish our times spent together both professionally as well as our dinners, solving the worlds problems. Please know your spirit lives on.
I had the honor of having dinner with Shannon a few months ago when I was in California. She was the "life" of the table. She was singing "Cher" songs and was cracking us up. I know what a good friend she was to Jackie Borders. I think about this terrible tragedy and have a hole in my heart. She will always be remembered. Mark Hirschberg
My most sincere condolences to Shannon’s family.
I too had the pleasure of working with Shannon at Borders
and her smile and love for life were absolutely contagious.
The world will miss her greatly; she truly made a difference amongst us.
Shannon,
your spirit can never be replaced. Your love of life, family and friends, calm nature and beautiful smile are things I'll never forget. Fill the skies with rainbows - like you've always wanted to!
I was priviledged to know this beautiful young woman. It was an honor to meet her after her first race and help her from the canoe. Though I only paddled with her a few times, those were joyous times on the water. Take comfort in God's word which says "to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." Her joy now is beyond what we can even imagine and certainly overshadows our sorrow. May God comfort her family (and us) in this time of loss.
What a beautiful woman with a beautiful spirit...and what a tragic loss. My heart is with her family.
My deepest sympathy to her family and friends. Shannon had an infectious smile, could tell a whimsical story, and bring joy to the people that she was around. I feel very fortunate to have worked with Shannon even for a short period of time. No words can ease the pain of the loss of such an influential person but we are all better people for being touched by having Shannon in our lives.
I did not know Shannon very well, but had a few dealings with her when I worked at PETCO. She was one of the nicest and sweetest ladies I have ever met. I know she was very well liked and will truly be missed by so many people. I drive by the area every day that sadly took her life, and as I have since she left us, I will continue to say Goodmorning and Goodnight as I pass by. My heart and prayers go out to her family and friends.
so shocked and saddened to hear of Shannon's untimely passing. as everyone who visits this blog surely knows, she was a one-of-a-kind woman with a beautiful spirit taken from this world too soon. my sincere condolences go out to Shannon's family and close friends during this difficult time.
Shannon your laugh and smile were infectious.... you will be greatly missed.
My deepest condolences and sympathies to your family. We will pray for you.
Shannon your laugh and smile were infectious.... you will be greatly missed.
My deepest condolences and sympathies to your family. We will pray for you.
All of us at Fe-Lines Inc. are stunned and saddened by Shannon's death. Our company has cherished our long time relationship with her, and we feel this tragedy deeply.
God speed, Shannon. We will miss and remember you.
I was only beginning to get to know Shannon...her good friends Katia and Jackie kept raving about how much I would love her...and I certainly did!
The last time I was in a boat with Shannon, I was stroking and Shannon was in seat 2. It was great to have her right behind me as we blended and rode the waves together and to hear her enthusiastically call out the changes. We went out to dinner that night and shared many laughs.
I am so blessed to have had you in my life Shannon. Mahalo
Gratitude to Jeff for bringing the lovely Shannon into our lives so many years ago. We are heartbroken for Jeff and Shannon's family. She was a ray of sunshine, a delightful spirit, so much fun and so welcoming and generous with her love. Jeff and Shannon have a permanent place in my heart.
To Shannon,
I'm so so sorry to lose you. I've only known you a little bit, but that little bit showed me how vibrant life could be. I hope to live life more fully from having known you and hope you are singing rock band up in heaven. I'm thinking of you and Jeffy Jeff.
Shannon,
What a radiant Person! The Hawaiian Princess with a brilliant smile! Even in the midst of challenges, you always had a positive attitude. I think of your statements "not fellin the love" when things weren't as they should be and "feelin it" when things were on track. Whether good or bad, you always kept a positive attutude with a beautiful smile. I loved your carefree attitude. When given the opportunity for kareoke, you were the one delighting us all with your beautiful voice, singing with great enthusiasm. It puts a smile on my face to think about your silly nature and your fearlessness to be exposed to your friends, you were real.
To your family, I send my condolences. Take joy in the great impact that Shannon had on us all. Although her life was tragically cut short, Shannon lived life to the fullest and touched many people along the way. I will carry great memories of Shannon! Be proud of the life she lived!
God Bless you Shannon! I will miss you!
aloha my sweet and dearest cousin...you are like my little sister and I will forever hold you in my heart. you will be missed surely on this earth, but in Zion you are reunited with our beloved grandparents, Grandma (Nana) and Grandpa Bray. I know you were excited to meet your new niece and when she is borne into this world and gets older, I will make sure that she knows all about her sweet Aunty Shannon - Aloha me ke aloha e Smiley! love you and miss you so much!
I didn't know Shannon well but she was always so nice and friendly to me. So sad to loose such a great human being at a young age. You are with God, HE will look after you!
My thoughts and prayers go out to your family.
Many, many years ago Michael brought this beautiful girl to Louisville and we will forever be touched by her ease, smile and loving heart! My heart breaks, for you her family and friends! I cannot begin to tell you how my heart hurts for you Michael, your friendship was a testament of what love really looks like! We miss you Shannon all the way in Louisville, Ky!
I did not know Shannon but I do have friends that know and have worked with her and when they speak of her, it is evident how much they loved her . She may be gone in the physical sense but her spirit lives on. The following poem was given to me and I can see Shannon's smiley face with that flower in her hair when I read it.
"I'm Free"
Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free
I'm following the path God laid for me,
I took his hand when I heard him call,
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day
To Last, to Love, to Work, or Play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way,
I found that place at the close of the day.
If my parting has left a void
Then fill it up with remembered joy
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,
Ah yes, these things I will miss,
Be not burdened in times of sorrow.
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I savored much;
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief.
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me
God wanted me now, he set me free.
Author Unknown
Shannon,We will miss your beautiful
smile and your awesome outlook on
life.
You were a truly positive person and shined a light on all of us who
had the pleasure of knowing you.
Shannon:
I will miss your full and gentle smile and your calmness. You were an inspiration to me. You have so much talent and so much creativity. You are missed terribly.
Shannon,
Thank you for touching my life in such a positive way. I did not have the opportunity to get to know you well, but the few times I was in your company or even when I read your emails, you were always happy, kind, professional, and honorable. I will miss you very much but will not forget you. I will pray for your family that they find peace in knowing you are in Heaven.
Shannon, you will truly be missed. I could always count on coming over to your desk for a quick hello, and walking away with a smile. Seeing you with a flower behind your ear always brought me back to remember the "Aloha Spirit". Your smile will be forever stored in my memory, as will our nights of Friday's trivia and Karaoke at the Carriage House.
Aloha
I came here from Rick Rockhill's blog. Hugs, thoughts, and prayers to Shannon's friends and family.
May you all find peace.
Unbelievable sadness. Through all of the rain that has been falling here in St. Louis, there are still the occassional rainbows as the clouds break, even for a brief moment.
This must be your heart,your smile, and your love pouring down on all of us.
You will be dearly missed.
Shannon,
You interviewed me almost 3 yrs ago for my position here at PETCO...I was so nervous. You walked in with a bright smile on your face and my nerves calmed. Your optmism affected all who met you.
As I was leaving work on Friday, you were standing in the hallway with a cat scratcher shaped like a cheese wedge. You were joking and laughing as always. This is how I’ll remember you…smiling, laughing, and enjoying life.
In a flowing skirt and flip flops, with a flower tucked behind your ear- you’ll always be in our hearts. My condolences to Shannon’s family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Sarah Bollman
Shannon touched the lives of many people. I will always remember her smile, her grace, and the way she made everyone around her feel welcomed. We will miss her.
Shannon-
Your huge smile and infectious laugh were an uplifting change of pace from the stressful corporate retail environment at PETCO. While our paths did not cross too often, you always struck me as someone who had a very unique mixture of traits: on the one hand, you were extremely passionate and dedicated to your work; on the other hand, it seemed to me that you didn’t take anything or anyone too seriously, and maintained a positive attitude despite whatever was thrown your way. It gave me a chuckle every time I tried to open a file and received the message, “This file is in use by Q-Dawg.” If we all had such balance in our lives, the world surely would be a happier place.
You were a true embodiment of the Aloha spirit and your family should be extremely proud to have had a daughter who touched so many lives. Your loss will be felt far and wide.
With love,
Patricia Briggs
Shannon was a bright spot for us, as a vendor of Petco, to work with. She brought a fresh outlook to the business and was a true joy to work with and will be missed greatly. May God Bless her family and friends.
I do not have words to express my feelings at this time. Shannon is truly a very happy girl with a cute smile in her face always. I truly miss her and she will always be in my heart. Even though I did not work with her for the past 6 months, I got a chance to work with her during last week on couple of days. We had a little chat over the phone on last Thursday (05/08/2008) and we both enjoyed it. I could not believe about her tragic death and still feel like it is a dream. We miss you Shannon.
I wish and pray god to give enough strength for her friends and families to go through this difficult time and may her soul rest in peace.
With Love
Lakshmi Srinivasan
Shannon had it all. She was beautiful, smart, funny, and one of the most genuine and caring people I've ever met. I'm having such a hard time accepting the fact that she is no longer with us, but I am so thankful to have known her. I will never forget her joyful spirit. She was like a ray of sunshine wherever she went.
Shannon, your smile and spirit will be missed and never forgotten!
I'll always remember the flowers tucked behind your ear, trying to learn how to golf together, and your GREAT laugh!
You leave behind a great legacy of family and friends who love and cherish you. We are comforted knowing that you'll be in heaven to greet us (and will probably have lei's ready!).
God Bless you, Sunshine!
Shannon will be missed greatly. It was a true joy to have had the opportuity to work with her. She was a very intelligent person who made good decisions. She was also friendly and could be tough in a extreemly nice way. She was fun and I will miss her a lot.
My prayers go out to her family an friends.
Shannon,
The first person I met at PETCO...my interviewer...and my friend. Your smile and laugh was infectious. You were a genuine friend over the couple years I had the pleasure of knowing you. You will be sorely missed by all and will forever be in our thoughts and prayers.
Always,
DJ Busch
Shannon,
You were a role model and an inspiration. I always looked up to you professionally but even more so personally. You worked hard but never forgot the important things in life. Even when I could see the stress in your eyes, you always made time to chat with me about the weekend or some ridiculous tv show. I will never forget our nights of karaoke, interpretive dancing and just acting like fools and not caring what anyone else thought. I will carry a piece of you with me and don't worry, in your honor, I will continue to make jokes in meetings to show people, like you did, that there is nothing too hard a little laughter can't help. I will miss you terribly, but you will be in my heart forever. Thanks for being a great friend.
What a shame to have lost such a beautiful person inside and out! My heart sunk when I heard the news and all I could think was how young Shannon was and how much more life she should have had left. While I worked briefly with her, I did not know her personally and I see that I truly missed out! Nonetheless, I will never forget her constant smile and friendly attitude. After reading so many great stories I know now that she lived more fully in her short time here than many do their whole lives... What a lesson for all of us...
To Shannon's family - my thoughts and prayers go out to you...you truly raised a wonderful lady, evident to her closest friends and her briefest acquaintences.
On behalf of everyone at M&G Partners and Verrico & Associates, please accept our most sincere and heartfelt condolences on the passing of Shannon. The news of her untimely death was a real shock to us all. I cannot imagine the impact it has had on her family and friends or the close-knit Petco family. I for one will always remember Shannon for her warm personality, beautiful smile and professionalism; she was a pleasure to work with. This is truly a loss for us all.
Such a wonderful soul to have touched all of our lives and left us so soon. What a loss for all she left behind
My prayers and thoughts with Shannon's family
Our Ohana reunited Christmas before last in Hawaii. Christmas Eve 2006 at my mom's house in Niu Valley. All the cousins were there, Liloa, Kawika, her Uncle Steve Dunn, Aunty Paddy, her boyfriend.....we had so much fun catching up because it had been much too long since we last saw each other (years of college, work, and living far from home) Shannon all grown up now yet nothing changed since she was just a little girl following her big cousin Liloa around grandma and grandpa Bray's house in Kailua, hours of swimming in the pool, eating grandma Bray's "ono" food, watching grampa Bray teach "Ellie" a new trick.... then it was time to say "goodbye", Christmas day was approaching and Shannon had to get up early. It was hard to let her go because it seemed like she just got there and we still had so much left to talk about, catch up on. so we captured the moment with a role of film, Shannon smiling brightly in each picture, one with all of us, one with just a few of us and one with her head nestled in her big cousin Lilioa's chest as if she was saying, "you're top dog cousin and I love you!" And then she was gone.... and that was the last time we saw our baby cousin. It feels just like that night on Christmas Eve...Shannon, you just got here and it's too soon to go home, could you just stay a little longer??? We'll miss you Shannon, not only were you a bright light to so many friends and family, but you gave our family inspiration knowing you were our Ohana so we were O.K. Now we must carry on the hope for a brighter future without you! We love you, Aloha pumehana, your Ohana
Shannon you represent the true meaning of "aloha" and brought such peace and calmness to work. The first time I heard you say Havai'i, I smiled and thought, how comforting it was to hear another islander, and so professional and kind. You will be deeply missed and my thoughts and prayers go out to all.
Fa'afetai Lava Shannon ~
Tiana Titialii
Shannon,
Your never ending smile will forever be with me. You had a way of making the worst days brighter, which we could all use much more of. Your spirit will forever live on with those who knew you, and I am so thankful I got to have you be part of my life for the last two years. I know you're just on the other end of the rainbow now, and we will all be able to karaoke again one day.
My prayers will forever be with you and your family.
With love,
Michael
Shannon, You were a joy to all who were fortunate to come in contact with you and I am happy I was among them. Your adventurous and kind spirit will be missed but remains in my heart.
To your family my condolences and deepest sympathies. You are in my thoughts and payers.
Shannon, Your bright smile and sunny disposition made the world a better place. It is an honor to have had a niece like you and you will be missed but always remembered. May angels usher you home.
Uncle Ed
A LIFE REMEMBERED
MISS ME, BUT LET ME GO...
When I come to the end of the road
And the sun has set for me
I want no rites in a gloom filled room- Why cry for a soul set free
Miss me a little, but not too long
And not with your head bowed low
Remember the love we once shared
Miss me, but let me go
For this is a journey we all must take & each must go alone
Its all part or lifes plan
A step on the road to home
When you are lonely & sick at heart
Go to the family & friends we know
And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds....
Miss me but let me go.....
Sincere condolences to Shannons loved ones & her PETCO family...
Remembering a fun loving, caring
& sweet soul!
Shannon you are amongst my favorite people. Your chrisma could out-shine any in the crowd. I have seen you absolutly light up a group of grumpy people without words just that smile. I admire that. This world needs smiles that make more smiles. This world needs people who are happy to be here. Shannon was. I just don't get it. Although we be separated by thousands of miles you affected my life directly and indirectly. You gave a balance to cousins who take it too seriously. You reinforced what we all know already all we need is love. And you were giving your love of life to everybody you meet. I will miss you. I am proud to have known you.
The smile, the positive attitude, the business sense, the love for her native Hawaii - Shannon, we will miss you!
Until we meet again!
Girl, one word...
Humuhumunukunukuapua'a
You KNOW what I'm talkin' bout
You can still make me laugh out loud
Shan-NON!
Bonzai and I will miss you very much. Being around that smile and radiant personality brought joy to our day. I still vividly remember fetching your vente iced vanilla latte's for our MMR reviews and stressing over not screwing the order up.
We will never forget you,
Eleanor
Oh Shannon. I can't look at a picture of you without bursting into tears now. I can't even come up with words.
You were such a joy to work with on so many levels. And I loved having you as a friend. I will always treasure all the laughs we had, and all the super serious life conversations.
I wonder if you knew how much you meant to all of us.
I will miss you so much.
My heart goes out to those closest to Shannon. Such a beautiful person, someone who lifted your spirits when around her without even trying.
Shannon, we will miss you. Your Aloha smile and bright personality were always a wonderful light in the day. Every time I step through the doors of Petco I will be thinking you.
Because of you I told my kids "I love them and held them very tight" I made a vow to remember what a short time we are on this earth and to live life to its fullest.
To your family I send my deepest condolences. You will be in my families thoughts and prayers
Shannon,
Your positive and happy spirit will never be forgotten. It was a pleasure to have met and worked with you.
Ware Manufacturing
The time I spent with Shannon was few and far between. The first time I met her was in Ann Arbor, I came home to visit and Jeff took me over to meet her. We spent an hour talking and we said goodbye.
I met her again five years later. I was visiting relatives in Chula Vista when Jeff called and said that he was in San Diego waiting for Shannon to get out of a Ryan Adams show. We got pizza, talked and went our separate ways.
Last month I was in Anaheim for work and Jeff, Shannon and two other friends from Michigan came down to grab dinner with me. I got to show her and Jeff pictures of my one month old daughter and go on and on about changing diapers and how big of an impact this little bug was having on my life. I held her a little tighter on Monday night.
I've known Jeff for 16 years now and knew first hand the love he felt for Shannon, you could hear it in his voice when he talked about her. He also talked about her family and his trip(s) back to Hawaii with her. I got to spend the better part of yesterday with her father, uncle and sisters and they truly are amazing people.
Hearing everyone else's words it's obvious that Shannon lit up the room wherever she was. Love and Positivity to JT and to the McCue's.
Love,
Randy, Lara & August
Like many others in our canoe club, I had just met Shannon and talked to her a few times before practice about Hawaii and how excited she was to finally be paddling. Reading all these comments makes me realize we missed getting to know a wonderful person. Shannon, you'll be with us for a long time.
Shannon,
I never had a chance to meet you in person, but I just love your Aloha spirit.
I'm so sorry you (Part of our Ohana)had to leave us so soon!
I know you'll be with us on the water, and we're here for you in spirit.
With Aloha
Jodi
Dana Outrigger
It's rare that a smile breaks the barrier that business puts in the way of humanity the way Shannon's could. Totally open and completly kind she made the world brighter just by her being. I will miss her.
I only met Shannon a couple times through work, but reading all the great stories and memories of Shannon, I wish I was able to get to know her better. She seems like she was a wonderful person to be around and a person that everyone loved. My condolences to Shannon's family and friends. You will be missed.
Shannon, I knew as a little freshman at Maryknoll highschool and she was an older and much cooler senior. It was easy to look up to her with her contagious laugh and smile and geniune heart. I have very memorable times of Shannon outside of highschool with her close friends in Hawaii. Her care of people and life always stood out. I am very thankful for those times and her everlasting smile. Peace be with all that loved her. She is smiling down from Heaven.
With Love & Aloha,
Summer
Do not stand by my grave and weep,
For I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the sunlight on the ripened snow.
When you awake in the morning, hush.
I am the quick uplifting rush,
Of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starlight at night.
Do not stand by my grave and weep, for I am not there, I do not sleep..
I found this appropriate for Shannon.. Rest in Peace.
Shannon, you left us way, way too soon. I look at your pictures and still see the light that you carried with you everywhere you went - and shared with whoever crossed your path.
I will miss you as a colleague - you had such a passion for what you did and where you were going - it was a pleasure to work with you.
But I will miss you more as a young woman who had so much life, so much happiness, and oh so much more to experience and have in this lifetime.
My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to your family and friends who are now deprived of your presence here on this earth in this lifetime.
Shannon, My heart goes out to your family, friends, and those of us just begining to know you. Your time with Oceanside Outrigger has made a huge impact on so many people. You will forever be missed.
the waters will miss you, shannon
What a great spirit...live Aloha from above.
MP
Shannon,
What a brilliant, bright light in the world! Seeing your smile made the world a better place. Your stregnth was always such an inspiration. You always saw the beauty in everything and made everyone around you so happy. We will all miss you so much.
My heart goes out to Shannon's family and friends who've suffered such a heavy loss.
I had the privilege of hiring Shannon from her Music SPO Clerk position at Borders Hawaii store into the BGI home office in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She and I worked together at Borders for years in different capacities since, and she was always a breath of fresh air with a brilliant smile to match. I will remember her affectionately forever.
I have not seen or talked to Shannon in a while. I was lucky enough to work with her for a while at Borders, when she was a buyer. I will never forget what a gentle, warm soul she exuded, and how welcome she made anyone around her feel.
It breaks my heart, truly, to hear this news; for the world is certainly less bright without her in it. Heaven is lucky to have you, Shannon. As were we.
God bless you, and your family and all the friends that will miss you. Aloha and thank you.
Love, Shannon Lumetta
Shannon,
Our deepest sympathys goes to your family and friends. It was a real pleasure working with you.
Mike and Roxy ~
My deepest condolences to you both. My heart just feel after hearing of your loss. I pray HE will give you strength during this trying time and you both will rejoice in the memories and time shared with such a beautiful daughter. Blessings to you both.
To My Dear Friends, the McCue Family:
My heart and prayers go out to you everyday. Everywhere I go these past few days, all I can see is Shannon's smiling face. Sometimes I hear her voice saying "Hi Aunti Amy" and I can feel her warm hug she always had for me. I am comforted when I do hear her voice. I know she is happy with our Heavenly Father and is now one of his many angels watching over us. She will be missed but know in our hearts she will be with us everyday of our lives. She will now be your protector and your strength. Have faith that someday your family will be together again.
Love you forever,
Amy
Cue,
I’ll think of you every time I see the red Starbucks holiday cups. I’ll think of you every time I eat “Bruschetta!” I’ll think of you every time I do the obligatory 3 full listenings of a new CD. I’ll think of you every time I sing karaoke, see Christmas lights and do mad-libs. And should I ever cross paths with a “Merkin” or sink full of milk-soaked underwear, I’ll think of you then too. I’ll think of you…and smile…remembering all the great times we shared. After all, that’s what you did best in life…made us smile and laugh along with you.
Missing you,
Todd
Jeff-
There is very little words can say or do to ease your pain. Shannon would want you to remember only the joy, love and happiness you shared together. My prayers are with you now.
I didn't have the honor of being one of Shannon's closest friends or even her co-worker. I served Shannon her coffee almost everyday for just about 2 years. To most people I am just a barista at their local Starbucks, but that was the best part about Shannon, she made everyone around her feel like more.
I always felt like my job everyday was to make my customers smile, but with Shannon it was always her who made me smile first. When I saw Shannon standing in line, flower behind her ear and smile as broad as the ocean, it would literally bring joy to my heart. She brought peace to my chaotic world everyday.
I am truly blessed to have known Shannon. Working in customer service for 15 years I have met a lot of people, but I have never met a person like Shannon. As so many said, she truly did make the world a better place. I have never felt such a loss like the day I found out Shannon was gone.
To her mom and dad, thank you for bringing such an amazing person into the world! My love and prayers are with you in this time of grief. May you feel the peace of God in your hearts.
Shannon, I will miss you more then words can describe. Thank you for everything.
Ginette("your favorite Starbucks barista")
To my partner in crime,
It still feels surreal to me. When really I feel like I should be able to just pick up the phone and call you right now and you would lighten my mood in just one sentence.
I've struggled this week to find the words to put down that will honor you in the way that you deserve. The problem is YOU were the Queen of Wit, I only hold the Princess title.
On my way out to San Diego this week I found the mixes that you made me when I left last year "Shannon's Sayonara Mixes (Happy and Sad)". They have come to mean more to me than you had intended. You gave me words to carry with me now.
You brought light into our lives that is irreplaceable. Smiles to our faces that won't fade.
I will miss you in ways I cannot describe. Thank you for being my friend, my mentor, the sister that I never had.
Love for always,
Lil Poop
SHANNON-Every Day
It seems that somehow things will never be the same. In the daily grind of life here in corporate America and life in general, I found solace in your kind eyes and warm smile, happiness in your sharp wit and humor and joy in your ability to make me laugh out loud every time I talked to you. Over the past several days, I’ve had a chance to talk to a lot of people who knew you well or knew you casually but in every case the impression you left was powerful, unforgettable, full of a love for life and a desire to make each moment count.
When I think of you, I’ll remember so much more than your beautiful smile or your sparkling eyes. I’ll remember you for what you taught me by example; that life is not a spectator sport but rather a place where we must go everyday and challenge the laws of chance and that time, whatever time we have been given on this earth, is our most priceless gift.
As I go forward in life Shannon, I make this promise to you…
Every day will be my best
Filled with purpose strong and true
Every day will be a reflection
Of every day I spent with you
Every day, I promise
I’ll remember your sweet voice
Telling me that every day
Happiness is my choice
I’ll ride the wave
I’ll hold on tight
I’ll paddle hard
I’ll see the light
I’ll taste the wine
And sing the song
I’ll feel the sun
And carry on
And with these words, I promise you
That the life you lived every day
Will be the brilliant light
That guides my way…every day
With all my love…Jerry
We are forever greatful it was your path we intersected for a brief moment in time; you will always be remembered.
Shannon~
It was a pleasure working with you at PETCO and am sadden to know that you have left us so early. But, God has his reasons for placing you on earth and that as everyone has written, you are truly an angel that touched everyones heart and souls. Your smile, kindness and respect for others is how I remember you. I believe you enter each and everyones lives to remind us how precious to enjoy life and to remind us to be kind to each other and appreciate the love ones in our life and not take anything or anyone for granted.
I know you are in good hands and that we will all see you again when our time on earth is done. You were sent to us as an ANGEL and have completed your job.
Thank You and your smile will never be forgotten.
Oh Shannon you were definitely a beautiful "Leilani" - Flower from Heaven, and now you have returned from whence you came, more beautiful than ever. You will always be young, happy, joyful, and beautiful. Aloha Noe Shannon, Aloha Noe. Love Auntie Francine & Ohana
As I sit here with tears that never seen to stop, I find it hard to put into words how much your friendship meant to me and how much I am going to miss you.
As each person has indicated in their comments, Shannon brought joy and sunshine into every persons life that she touched. How many people can say that about themselves? Shannon brought out the best in everyone including myself. I am a better person for having known her and consider myself very lucky to have been one of her close friends. Shannon had many friends who loved her and they will all say that it was easy loving her. She was warm, kind, complex, funny, always up for something new, smart and I will say again..funny. Shannon always made me laugh. Always came up with some funny twist on everyday life or general quip about the mundane...which made me laugh even more.
I will miss our friendship, the laughter, the good times, the merriment and the comfort of having you in my life. I will miss you and love you always and forever. You will always be in my heart.
This is probably my tenth or so time logging on to the site as I am still in denial about this tragic event & am having difficulty finding the words..... Shannon, you will be greatly missed. Your fun loving nature and graceful spirit will stay with us always.
Shannon was an amazing person. I can't believe that the world will keep turning without her. She was so vibrant, so charming and so fun to be around that it is really hard to understand how it could all change in an instant. I can only think that she was ready for her next adventure and that her true "Rock Star" was ready to move on...
I miss her already
It is now June 6th and I just now learned of Shannon's death. I can't describe how shocked and saddened I am by this. I am so sad for her family and friends. I am so sad for Mike and Sheila, her mother. I was a good friend of Sheila's a long time ago and always loved Shannon. She was a very special girl and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Oh my God. I am so sad to hear the awful news about Shannon. Her dad was a dear friend of mine and I watched her grow up to be a beauty inside and out. Mike,our prayers to you and your family. Cara Carter Feliciano
I only just heard of Shannon’s untimely death. My memories of Shannon were of her as an infant and child. Even then she had a unique spirit and such a real zest for life. She ran rather than walked; hair flying behind bright eyes and infectious smile leading the charge. Even then you knew she was a truly special being, a blessing on the world. She had the most graceful way about her so unusual in someone yet so young. From reading the many tributes to her, the qualities she possessed as an adult were always present and profoundly evident in her even as a very small child. We are all diminished by her loss and even Heaven is made more perfect with her presence. To Sheila, Mike and family, the Dunn family and all those who held her close in their hearts my prayers for comfort go out to you all.
i'll always remember your infectious cheerful/playful disposition, even in the toughest of times, and for sticking up for me when few others would despite the risk to your good name. that will ALWAYS be remembered by me and truly appreciated, to have not only a coworker but a true friend to work though the best and worst of times with. thanks for all the laughs and will look to doing it again with you again when the time comes.
Ichariba choodee
josef
ALOHA SHANNON,
UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN ON THE OTHER SIDE TAKE CARE OF FREDDIE FOR YOUR MOM AND ME.
WITH LOVE AND ALOHA,
JOHN
Good words.
Thinking of you today...
Always thinking about you...
Shannon, I will always remember you, and I will miss you.
Happy Birthdy Baby. We miss you everyday, but especially on your birthday, the day the world was graced by your wonderful beautiful you.
I love you and miss you.
Dad
Who knows where to download XRumer 5.0 Palladium?
Help, please. All recommend this program to effectively advertise on the Internet, this is the best program!
shannon..i didn't know you, but i heard about your lovely light from your sweet friend Inna. and how you shine in the pictures. you sound like a beautiful woman and i am sure your light continues to shine through many. what a beautiful messenger of love you are. tea perhaps sometime on the other side? love and light - ted
My Beautiful Daughter,
Today isn't your birthday or Mother's Day, the last Mother's Day I would ever have, it's just one more day I have to live in this world without you. My heart aches for you everyday, I pray each night to go to sleep and wake up to find it was all a horrible nightmare, but I wake up empty knowing I will never hold or kiss you again, I will not hear your laughter or your sorrow anymore. I never realized that you defined me Shannon. You were my reason for being. You were my only child, my most precious gift, I couldn't believe I had been given this perfect extraordinary person entrusted to my care. You delighted everyone, not one person who has met you can ever be the same. They are all enriched for having known you. Thank you everyone for your beautiful comments, Shannon was such a unique, rare young woman, all of you understood that. Thank you thank you. Shannon my baby I pray we will be together again, and I pray for the morning I wake up, not to realize it was a horrible nightmare but for the morning I see your beautiful face holding out your hand to me. I love you completely,
Mommy
Dearest Shiela,
We are deeply saddened to hear about Shannon. Please accept our deepest sympathy. She was a beautiful young woman and we will always remember her beautiful smiling face and cherish the time we spent with her, both in Hawaii and when you came here to Chicago to visit with us. Even though time has passed I will never forget the friendship we had and I just wish I could have been there for you in your time of need like you were for me so many times so long ago. Enclosed is my email, Please feel free to contact me if you need anything, even if just to talk, I will be there for you., Lots of love, Danni John and Melissa Halik
Dannigal1@aol.com, I am also on Facebook.
You are still with us. Thank you, Shannon. You were a crucial part of me getting started onto the path I'm on now. I hope you are proud.
Dear sweet Shannon...the tears still flow....the tree we planted in our yard in your memory is about to bust out in bloom...a lovely reminder of who you are. We have sent your mother a Mother's Day gift again this year, and will continue to do so in your stead. Love, love, love. Uncle Ed and Auntie Gretchen
Just thinking about you lately. Your spirit touched my life and I won't forget you.
Mahalo,
e
My Beautiful Shannon,
Today will marks the 3rd anniversary of you leaving and the tears never stop flowing for me. I see you in everything I do and everywhere I go. I see a blonde ponytail on a young woman at the bus stop and my heart quickens, then the hollow emptiness hits me because intellectually I realize it isn't you, but in my heart...that is a different story. Thank you for blessing my life Shannon, thank you for making me your Mom. Never before and never again will my heart be so full as it was when you were here. I dreamed about you the other night, which is something very new. I was so at home in my sleep I never wanted it to end. I woke up bathed in your love, thank you for that I wish I could report I am doing fine but after 3 years it is still as if I just lost you. This wound will not heal, but I will continue to cherish you, tell your stories, listen to your music and look at your beautiful face in my pictures, Shannon I love you have always loved you, will always love you. How honored I am to have been there when you came into this world. Stay safe sweetie I will see you soon.
Love,
Mommy
MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO HER FAMILY,I GOT THE NEWS TODAY FROM A CO-WORKER FROM PETCO AND STILL,I'M IN A LITTLE SHOCK,I HAD THE LUCK OF MEETING HER WHILE WORKING THERE AND ALWAY'S HAD THIS FRIENDLY SMILE AND ATTITUDE,AT THE SAME TIME THAT I RESPECTED HER A LOT,IT'S BEEN A WHILE SCINCE I MOVED TO A DIFFERENT JOB,BUT YOU NEVER LOOSE YOUR FRIENDS,BUR I'M GOING TO PRAY FOR HER BECAUSE SHE NEED A PERMANENT LIGHT FOR EVERYONE IN OUR HEARTS
August in Montana = wonderful sunshine but, Shannon, you brought sunshine to so many people's lives with your great smile and cheery disposition. We love you and miss you.
I’m completely blown away. I met Shannon at Global Pet Expo in San Diego on February 15th, 2008. She showed up in my booth just as the exhibit hall opened, showed great appreciation for my product, looked me in the eyes, handed me her card, and said “call me when you’re ready.” Three years later my product is ready. I call her extension, get a voice mail, and figure she’s moved on. I decide to look her up since she was so encouraging and learned her fate. Her picture at the top of this memorial page took me back to that instant in time and reminded me of her warmth and passion for her job. My deepest sympathy to her family and friends…….
To Shannon's family- I just stopped by to see this blog I created a few years ago, and didn't expect to see new comments. I am so happy that this little blog page continues to serve as a place of comfort and memory of Shannon. I think about Shannon all the time, small reminders pop up here and there. not even sure what made me come to this site again today, but I'm glad I did.
Peace to you all
Rick Rockhill
THANK YOU MY DEAR FRIEND DANNI I THINK I AM ABLE TO COPY AND PASTE YOUR BEAUTIFUL COMMENT WORDS SEEM SO INADEQUATE BUT YOU MANAGED TO MAKE THEM HEARTFELT AND BEAUTIFUL I THANK YOU AS DOES SHANNON, MUCH MUCH LOVE XOXOXO
Danni Halik 6:24pm May 11
Hi Sweetie, Just thinking of you, I wanted to let you know that I know these next few days are going to be hard and even though i am zillions of miles away , i am only a phone call away if you need to talk. I went to Shannon s page and i could not remember my password so i thought i would just message you. Shannon was a extraordinary Person. she was Smart, beautiful and Independent, Caring , loving and a friend to all who knew her. All these qualities which I know she got from you. You did a wonderful job raising such a wonderful person and you should be very proud to know It was YOU who molded such a Great Daughter. Memories of Shannon will warm the hearts of hundreds of people who knew her for Many many years. She touched many people with her kindness and loving personality. I along with many other people feel blessed to have know her and I thank you for being part of my life. love you always, Danni
Mahalo Rick for creating and memorializing my beautiful daughter. I hope to see you drop in over the years. It warms my heart that she had such a beautiful friend in you.
Love love and so much Aloha to you!
Shannon's Mom
Time flies but the tears and memories linger. Your lilac tree is about to bloom again this spring. Whenever your name is spoken, Shannon, it is followed by a smile and a sigh.
Hi Shanster, Missing you so much. As each years passes your memory grows stronger in my heart. I know you are smiling down on your Mom today. I hope it eases her pain. I love you, miss you & think of you often.
It is so nice to still see people coming to this blog for Shannon. It warms my heart that so many people still find comfort in it.
Shannon I miss you.
blessings to all.
Rick
Listening to Iz and thinking of you today. Still miss your bright smile.
Every year I end up back on this page to spend some time reflecting and missing our girl.
Love. Always.
Once again a year has gone by. Your smile on these pictures still brings a smile to our faces. With much love, dear Shannon.
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