On the afternoon of December 19, 2019, the Bowie’s sadly said goodbye to Shannon. Her family was by her side as her decision to move on was carried out. She left this world on her own terms and with no regrets after a six month battle with pancreatic cancer.
Shannon was a kind and loyal wife and mother to her children Paige and Jackson and husband Sam. Predeceased by her father, Don Gibson and brother, Russell Gibson, she is survived by her mother Vivian Gibson and siblings Corey and Scott and their wonderful families.
Born and schooled in Williams Lake, a community she was fiercely proud of, she made her way to Victoria after graduation. She met Sam in 1995 and was foolish enough to marry him in the summer of 2000. They enjoyed travelling together around B.C. and the Yukon in their early years together.
The real joy in her life came with the births of Jack in 2002 and Paige in 2004. They gave her such great joy and purpose. They were a constant source of pride. Shannon was a wonderfully bright light and a good friend to many. Her quick smile, wicked sense of humour and ready hugs were a joy to all her friends. Shannon’s “Bitches” were special friends and their Black Friday shopping extravaganzas were always epic adventures for all concerned. Shannon had a discerning eye and as an avid collector/hoarder, she purchased questionable antiquities, especially purses and coins.
After her tough diagnosis, the family decided to continue with a planned trip to New York City and Baltimore where they visited Jack’s prospective university and Paige enjoyed the thrill of shopping on Fifth Avenue.
Shannon’s family is forever indebted to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Palliative Care team, Claremont High School staff, countless friends, neighbours, coaches, teacher, co-workers and employers. A very special thank you to Kim Ewer and Dr.’s Hugh Down, Karen Down and Andrea Lewis and all the doctors and support staff at the B.C. Cancer Agency.
The family has requested no flowers but, if you would like to, please consider a donation to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Palliative Care Unit in Shannon’s memory.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, January 26, 2020 in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
47 Responses
Alas, I knew Shannon for far too short a time, but from the moment I met her 6 years ago, I realized that she was a remarkable person—remarkable for her ability to laugh and to share her optimism and sense of humour; remarkable for her determination to look on the bright side, to find the blessings even in darkness. Just seeing her in the office at CAPI brought me such joy! I know she touched so many lives with the power of that joy. To Paige and Jackson: you are the light she leaves behind—she lives through you! To Sam: I know something of the pain you’re going through, although my husband had led a long and full life by the time he died nearly four years ago. (Shannon gave me such comfort then!) The love you shared will never die. It continues on, even now. You may not see her, but she’s with you always.
Sam I am so sorry to hear of this horrific loss. My memories of Shannon are all from you. I know how devoted she was to you and Paige and Jack. I also know how much you loved her and your kids. I do hope that love carries you through this time and allows you to go forward. Our thoughts are with you.
Valerie Ross and Bruce Campbell
Dear family – my heart aches for you. Shannon was such a joy and pleasure to work with and I know she will be missed deeply. Know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Her laughter and fun loving spirit was infectious and I will miss her very much! Take care of each other. Shari Winter
Dear Beautiful Shannon, gone too soon from your family and friends. Your smile will shine bright on your next journey.
I love you buddy , always will and I know we will see each other again . I will wait to hear from you our sweet warrior . Until then give JC the hugest kiss and hug . Anne, Dez Leah & Tom XO
Dear Shannon your big smile always made my day. My deepest sympathies to your family and friends.
Sam, Jack & Paige, Shannon was always smiling and always made time for a chat. She spoke of Jack and Paige so proudly with a big smile, family was always first for her always. She has left you far too early, but please know she is always with you in spirit. My deepest sympathy to you and your extended family and friends.
Dearest Shannon, so very saddened to know you have left us. We enjoyed hugs and laughter over our many years of friendship. You were there at my graduation and at my retirement celebration. I can’t believe you are gone. So full of life. My deepest condolences to your family and your oh, so many friends. Your bright spirit will be missed but always remembered. Fondest farewells, my friend.
Sam, Jack & Paige,
I am so sorry for your loss, there just aren’t any words. Even though I didn’t know Shannon personally, she sounds like an amazing wife and mother. May God give you all comfort and strength at this sad time.
Sam,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family.