DIAMONDHEAD, MS.<! > - Charles
William Shannon (86) died peacefully at home with his family Sunday, March 3, 2002 after a grueling struggle with bone cancer.
Charles is survived by his wife, Violet; daughters, Patty (Michael) Clark, and Marty Shannon (Dean Workman); son, Chuck Shannon; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two brothers and others in his extended family. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Janet Fratello; grandson, Joe E. Fratello; and brothers, Harold and James.
Charles was born August 25, 1915 in North St. Paul, Minnesota to Mary and Edgar Shannon. He was reared in North St. Paul with his four brothers: Harold, Robert, John, and James. He attended college at the University of Minnesota where he graduated in 1941 with a degree in Geological Engineering. Prior to graduation, Charles married Violet Wyman on April 19, 1941. They were married nearly 61 years and shared many rich and happy experiences.
Soon after his graduation, Charles was sent to serve in the Army in the European Theater during World War II. He spent most of his service years with the Corps of Engineers. He was honorably discharged as a Captain and retired from the reserves as a Major in 1963.
Charles and Vi enjoyed raising their four children while moving extensively through the United States, working in mines and oil fields. Much of his later career was spent working in Central and South America. During that time he learned much of the language and culture he encountered. His eloquent writing ability made these exotic locales come alive through his letters home and his journal.
Charles was a multitalented man, an accomplished artist and musician, possessing a wonderful tenor singing voice. He loved his work, enjoyed golf, was an avid reader of literature and science, and talented at carpentry and mechanics.
Charles was an outstanding father and role model for his family. He lived his passion for learning from life and the people around him. He was admired and loved by the people who had the privilege to know him throughout his life. He gave so much and will be missed greatly.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 30, 2002 at 1:00 p.m. at the Holladay Cottonwood Mortuary, 4670 Highland Drive in Salt Lake City, Utah.
The family suggests donations to the Children's Service Society, 124 South 400 East, Suite 400, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84111, a non-profit organization his daughter directed for 10 years.