Emily Nellie Shannon

Born in Melfort, Saskatchewan, on November 14, 1945, Emily later moved to Penticton and the Peachland area of British Columbia, where her father had an orchard. As a young woman, she completed her studies at a convent and studied nursing after high school. She had aspirations of becoming a nun. Life, however, had other plans when she met James (Jim) Shannon, the man who would become her husband. They married on July 27, 1968, and welcomed their son, Dennis. When Dennis was just one year old, the family moved to Calgary, where Emily would build her life and career.

Emily devoted more than 30 years to nursing, caring for people with intellectual disabilities and physical challenges. Her compassion extended beyond her nursing career into home care and, later, companion sitting. As she approached retirement, she continued doing what came naturally to her: spending time with elderly people who were lonely or had no family nearby. She understood that caring for someone meant more than tending to their needs; sometimes, it meant simply being there.

Throughout her career, Emily made a difference in the lives of the people she cared for, as well as their families and her fellow coworkers. Her dedication to her work was unmistakable, and she remained a hardworking woman throughout her life.

Those who knew Emily knew she was never one to mince words! She was always willing to speak her mind. But alongside that honesty was a wonderful sense of humour. Emily was funny, quick-witted, and capable of bringing laughter into everyday moments.

Emily was also a fabulous cook. Her butter tarts, homemade pizza, stuffing, cabbage rolls, and Christmas pudding were family favourites, lovingly prepared and enjoyed around the table. She treasured time with her family, whether sharing a home-cooked meal or heading out together to a favourite restaurant. And when it came to Yahtzee, Emily was a force to be reckoned with—she always won!

These simple pleasures were part of what made time with Emily special: good food, family close by, a little friendly competition, and plenty of opportunity for laughter. Above all, Emily was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. Her family was an important part of who she was, and the time they shared created memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Emily is lovingly remembered by her son, Dennis Shannon, his wife, Melissa Shannon; her grandson, Josiah Shannon, his partner, Ally Farihy; her granddaughter, Charity Shannon, and her partner, Xanthus Schaub. She is also remembered by the Exner and the Shaw families, her brother, Harry Niwranski, other siblings, and extended family members.

Emily was predeceased by her beloved husband, James (Jim) Shannon, and her parents, Sam and Victoria Niwranski.

She leaves behind friends, neighbours, former coworkers, and former clients who remember her with affection. Each knew a different side of Emily, and each carries their own memories of a woman whose honesty, humour, hard work, and distinctive personality left a lasting impression.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Bethany Care Centre in Calgary, who became like family to Emily during her final years.

Their kindness went beyond providing care. They took the time to know Emily as a person, appreciate her individuality, and bring warmth and joy into her days. They helped make her final years meaningful and filled with compassion, and the family will always be grateful for the genuine care and affection they showed her

To everyone at Bethany who helped Emily feel at home, thank you for making such a difference in her life.

Emily lived a life marked by dedication, hard work, family, and a spirit that was unmistakably her own. She will be remembered in favourite recipes passed down, stories retold with laughter, and the many lives she touched through her years of caring for others.

She will be deeply missed by those who loved her, and she will always hold a special place in their hearts.

This obituary has been authorized by the family for posting on Foster’s Garden Chapel Funeral Home’s website. As such, it is protected against any reproduction or redistribution without prior consent from the family