Shannon was born on July 9, 1959. She grew up on a farm in Stratton, Ontario, surrounded by family. Playmates were siblings, friends and cousins who lived nearby and went through school together with her. Shannon attended Patullo No. 6, Morley Central and Rainy River High School.
Shannon was fit and had a strong work ethic. In school she excelled in athletics and Track and Field was her sport. She was a strong sprinter, winning many races, breaking Ontario time records and as a teen was invited to attend an elite track and field camp at the International Peace Gardens. Shannon’s interest in fitness eventually lead her to enrol in the Recreation Leadership Program at Confederation College. Shannon wrote poetry and taught herself to paint. While living in Winnipeg she enrolled in visual arts at Red River Community College. Gifts of her paintings and poetry are treasured by family members.
Through the years Shannon worked at a variety of jobs, including helping Colin and Trish in their food business. During her tenure at Canada Post she lived in Winnipeg and Halifax before relocating back home. Wanting to be closer to family, Shannon settled in Fort Frances and in 2004 she married Terry Kawulia. Shannon enjoyed the outdoors and being around nature, especially lakes.
Shannon was a kind and caring person. In relationships Shannon was respectful and non-judgemental. She loved her nieces and nephews and the feelings for Auntie Shannon were mutual. People were drawn to Shannon’s good nature and infectious laugh. Her experiences in life were mixed, with both solid friendships and others that were unexpectedly harmful. Either way, Shannon tried never to burden others with her problems. Shannon enjoyed the simple things, spending holiday meals together at Mom and Dad’s and Colin and Trish’s homes, and a recent trip with Heather and Fran to visit Mike and Joanne in Saskatchewan. Shannon lived her life with an open heart.
Through her life Shannon struggled with her mental health. When her physical health also declined Shannon was admitted to La Verendrye Hospital and eventually to the Palliative Care Unit. With a caring medical and nursing team and family at her side, Shannon died peacefully on July 21, 2026.
Shannon was predeceased by parents Keith and Grace Neilson and nephew Luke Clayton. She was survived by her spouse Terry Kawulia, who died within weeks of Shannon’s passing. She is survived by her brothers Michael (Joanne) and Colin (Trish) Neilson, sister Heather (Francis) Clayton; as well as nieces and nephews Matthew (Blanca) and James (Blanca) Neilson and their families, Hunter and Tanner (Alivia) Neilson, and Sydney, Madison and Erin Clayton.
Shannon’s wishes were to be cremated. A celebration of Shannon’s life will be held at a later date at North Branch Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to attend.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd., Emo, Ontario.
