Reed Shannon

Areta “Reed” Shannon July 11, 1943 – December 22, 2024 Areta Shannon, lovingly known as Reed, was born on July 11, 1943, in Monterey, California. He graduated from East Liverpool High School in 1961 and proudly joined the United States Air Force in 1962. Reed married the love of his life, Esther Sue Grimm, on June 7th 1963 just two days after her high school graduation. The couple soon moved to Texas, where he was stationed with the Air Force. During his service, he was recognized for his contributions to Operation Long Life, the first operational base launch of a U.S. Air Force Minuteman missile, Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, Montana in 1965. After completing his military service, Reed pursued his passion for the arts. He graduated from The Art Institute of Pittsburgh with a diploma in Advanced Advertising Illustration in 1968. A gifted artist and creative spirit, Reed worked at Kent State University and was present during the historic shootings in 1970. Eventually, Reed and Esther moved to Washington State in 1971 where they homesteaded land and built a life rooted in hard work, creativity, and love. He had a lifelong love of gardening and raising animals, and he spent countless hours with his model trains and painting. His artwork was admired and sold throughout the community. Reed held a variety of positions over the years, working for Uni-FLite, The Bellingham Herald, and Lynden Tank Company, from which he eventually retired. After retirement, Reed enjoyed traveling to Arizona and Mexico with Esther and friends. Reed always believed in the power of hard work and kindness. He was known for his steady presence, creative mind, and for always being ready for a good time. Reed passed peacefully at home surrounded by family on December 22, 2024. He was a devoted father to his children, Robin Shannon Porter (Chris Porter) and Brooke Rene Boevers (James Boevers) and a proud grandfather to Rylan Clausen, Bailey Boevers, Reed Clausen, and Kinley Boevers. He is survived by his siblings, Uril Shannon (Robin Shannon), Ned Shannon, Victoria Shannon, Steven Shannon (Kathy Shannon) and many nieces and nephews. He is proceeding in death by his wife Esther Shannon, his parents, Ike and Mary Shannon and sister Judy Norton. A private memorial will be held to celebrate Reed’s life and spread Reed and Esther’s ashes on May 24th.