Shannon Drake Tompkins

Shannon was born on December 16, 1967, in Sioux Falls, SD. He grew up in Jamestown, ND and later moved to Louisville, KY where he lived for many years. He attended both North Dakota State University and Southern Illinois University, with multiple Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Psychology, Behavioral Science, and Business. Shannon had an accomplished career in Information Technology, working for Yum! Brands, IBM, Cisco, and most recently Palo Alto. He was a brilliant Information Security engineer who loved to dive into the details of troubleshooting and learning, and he always made lasting relationships with his co-workers and customers. Shannon also taught Network Security at the University of Louisville for two semesters as an adjunct professor, reflecting his dedication to both learning and sharing that knowledge with others.

Shannon was a devoted husband to his wife, April, and a proud, loving father to his daughter, Maddie. His love for April was steady and unmistakable. It showed in the way he stood beside her, in quiet moments and loud ones, in shared laughter and shared strength. Shannon’s daughter Maddie was born in 2007, and his life was forever changed. He was a nurturing, dedicated, and selfless father who loved watching her grow, learn, and thrive. He loved to share his passion for music and his adventures with her to broaden her cultural and intellectual boundaries. Family was always at the center of Shannon’s life, and he shared strong bonds with many who loved him dearly.

Shannon had a deep passion for music and lake life. He attended many live music events and would always introduce friends and family to new bands. Boating and watersports were among his favorite pursuits, especially when shared with those he loved. He also embraced a lifestyle centered around health and fitness – running, walking his dogs, and eating well – inspiring others through his dedication and discipline.

Above all, Shannon will be remembered for his warm heart, his energy and excitement for life, and the joy he found in spending time with his wife, daughter, family, and friends. His laughter, strength, and love will shine on in the many lives he touched.

Shannon was preceded in death by his dad, David Tompkins, whose kindness and strength was the example set for his own fatherhood.

Shannon is survived by his wife April Tompkins, his daughter Maddie (18), mother Kathleen Tompkins, birth father Richard Hickenbotham; siblings Nathan (Holly), Melissa (George) Burke, and Matthew (Amanda); Maddie’s mother, Rita; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who loved and adored him.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family set up an education fund for his daughter, Maddie – https://go.fidelity.com/vpciq5 . Maddie is a freshman at University of Cincinnati, majoring in Biomedical Engineering.