Ann Shannon

Our dear Ann passed away peacefully at her home in Pasadena, California, with her sister and brother-in-law by her side.

Ann was born on January 8, 1954, in Toronto, Canada to proud parents, Jeanne and Dan Shannon and excited big sister, Barb. She was joyful from the very beginning.

Ann graduated from R.H. King Collegiate and had her mind set on studying math at university. A class visit to the Radio and Television lab at Ryerson Polytechnic (now TMU) was all it took for her to realize she had found her passion. Following graduation, she spent her career in the television news industry. Ann travelled the world recording the sound of countless news events, working in cities across Canada, in Hong Kong and numerous other locations, sometimes in perilous circumstances. She eventually made her professional home at NBC News Burbank. Her travel for news continued and included editing at multiple Olympic Games worldwide. She was known as a gifted video editor with whom everyone loved to work and her often quoted ‘Ann’isms’ would lighten the mood during the most stressful of deadlines.

In her younger years, Ann spent many summers with family and friends at the cottage on Kennisis Lake, north of Toronto. She loved feeding chipmunks and ducks, water skiing, boating, playing cards or board games and enjoying the beautiful scenery. After she moved away, one of the greatest joys of coming home in the summer was that she could spend time at the cottage. Of course, a Christmas visit to Toronto was not complete without at least one snowfall.

Ann had many talents and hobbies, among them calligraphy, needlepoint and baking. She loved birds and animals and particularly enjoyed watching the hummingbirds in her backyard. Ann was an avid scuba diver and longtime member of the West Los Angeles Dive Club. Her diving adventures took her to many parts of the globe including Indonesia, the Philippines, the Caribbean and South America. She preferred live-aboard boat trips and at each location marveled anew at the wonders of life under the sea.

Ann had friends in every corner of the world. She was fiercely loyal and a great listener who offered advice only when asked. She loved her family and friends without reservation. The outpouring of love and support, especially during these past few months, is a testament to her enduring friendships. 

Ann was a ray of sunshine in even the most difficult situations. Her ‘glass half-full’ attitude toward everything in her life was an inspiration to all. She was wise, lots of fun, curious, adventurous and very brave. She was the best sister ever. 

Our family wishes to acknowledge Dr. Monica Sarang, Ann’s family physician, who provided extraordinary and compassionate care for many years. We are also thankful for the support over the past few months from the staff at Pristine Hospice and from her caregivers.

Ann is survived by her sister, Barb Shannon, and her adored brother-in-law, Dean Drager. We will miss her immensely, but she will be in our hearts forever. 

There are many ways to honor Ann, among them a slice of apple pie with cheddar cheese, a glass of wine, Bailey’s on ice and, of course, chocolate in any form. In lieu of flowers, for those who wish to make a donation in Ann’s memory, her choice would be either the American or Canadian Cancer Society. Celebrations of Ann’s life will be held in Los Angeles and Toronto at later dates.