Robert L. Shannon

Robert L. Shannon passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025, at the age of 96. Just more than four months earlier, he was predeceased by his beloved wife of 72 years, Norma Shannon. He is survived by his two children: Robert Shannon (Mary) and Sharon Bennett (Rustin); six much-loved grandchildren: Kathryn, Christopher, Elizabeth, Peter, Heather, and Sean; and nine great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

An Air Force veteran of the Korean War, Bob went on to serve for another 28 years as a pilot in the Air Force Reserves, stationed at Niagara Falls, and retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. It was a lifelong love of flying that inspired his service, as well as the abiding friendships he enjoyed with his flying buddies and their families, who fondly referred to him simply as “Shannon.”

Bob earned a B.S. degree from the University of Rochester in 1958 and for 36 years worked as a chemist with Eastman Kodak Company. He took an early retirement so that he and Norma could dedicate themselves to a love that they both shared in common—life in the Adirondack Mountains.

Each summer, from April through October (and sometimes in the middle of winter!), Bob and Norma could be found at the house on Limekiln Lake, in Inlet, NY. For almost 35 years this was their true home, a place of peace and joy for themselves, and of warm welcome for the countless friends who visited. And here is where he applied another of his loves—a love for working with his hands: carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, small engine repair, yard work, and all manner of puttering and invention, whatever it took to keep his home in good repair and working order. It was here, at “Edgewater” camp, that Bob created enduring memories for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who all knew him affectionately as “Beba.” Together with all who knew him, they will remember Bob Shannon for his warm and generous spirit, his unwavering devotion to his family, and his life lived to the fullest with integrity, purpose, and fullness of heart.

A celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 31st at 10AM at The Church of the Epiphany, 3285 Buffalo Rd, Rochester, NY 14624.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Church of the Epiphany, Gates, NY.

To share a memory of Robert or leave a special message for his family, visit the guest book below.