Richard "Rik" Shannon

Richard “Rik” Joseph Shannon, 68, passed away at his home in Des Moines on March 23, 2025.

Rik was born on October 7, 1956, and raised in Sigourney, Iowa, graduating from Sigourney High School and then attending Wartburg College. He went on to settle into the Des Moines area, where he built a life rooted in family, advocacy and community. On March 8, 1978, he married his best friend and lifelong partner, Carol (Clayton) Shannon. Together, they raised three children—Erin, Keely, and Devin—and created a home filled with love. Rik was a constant presence at sports meets and tournaments, always there with a camera in hand.

Rik dedicated his professional life to improving the lives of Iowans with disabilities, spending 23 years with the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council. Outside of work, Rik was an avid cyclist, a talented guitarist, and as a fan of barrel-aged stouts, he was a familiar face at local breweries. He was a proud grandpa and papa who made sure to pass on his love of music and playing the guitar. A devoted Iowa Hawkeyes fan, he rarely missed a game and loved hosting watch parties filled with good food and better company.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond “Pat” and Rose Mary (Merz) Shannon, and two brothers Tim and Jeff Shannon.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Carol Shannon, their children Erin (Matt) Irwin, Keely (Tony) Shannon, Devin (Rebecca) Shannon, grandchildren Kieran, Teagan, Ronan, Pepper, Nolan, his brothers Terry (Susan) Shannon, Randy (Karen) Shannon and sister-in-law Linda (Neal) Westergaard.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

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