Mr. Larry G. Shannon, 81, died at Shannon's Jewelry Store at 4:29 P.M., on December 8, 2010 of sudden heart attack.
Larry was born June 12, 1929 to the late Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Gilbert Shannon in Seymour, Indiana. He moved to LaPorte Indiana in 1948, where he graduated from LaPorte High School. After High School, Larry attended Elgin Watchmakers College and graduated July of 1949.
Larry served with the United States Army from 1951- 1953. After an honorable discharge from the Army, Larry worked at Bendix Brakes Aviation in South Bend, Indiana. He was married to M. JoAnn (Turak) Shannon on July 18, 1953. That same year, Larry and his wife, JoAnn, opened Shannon's Jewelry Store, which is still in business today after 57 years and being run by daughter Nancy K. Shannon. Larry remained dedicated to the store and made it his life's work and passion to the very last moment of his life. He was always eager to meet people with a genuine smile and gave a service to the community that is uncommon to find. It was not uncommon for Larry to masterfully repair an old clock or sentimental piece of jewelry for a minimal fee. Then, as if a spring chicken himself, would say "well, that's your senior discount".
For many years, between the rigors of running a busy Jewelry store and raising a family, Larry drove a community school bus. Many times the adult "children" would come into the store and fondly reminisce with him about the good ol' days. He admitted that he carried a paddle on the bus to keep the kids in line but of course he never intended to use it.
In addition to his fondness of children, Larry had a soft heart for all animals but especially those that seemed to be lost or neglected. He kept a ready stock of dog and cat food for any lost or neglected animal that may stray his way, which seemed to be often and many. Also well fed was the backyard wildlife, drawing in birds and squirrels from which he drew much joy. Larry was a member of 1st Baptist Church where he sang in the choir and served on the Board of Deacons.
Larry is survived by his daughter Nancy K. Shannon of South Bend, Indiana and son, David (Gina) Shannon of LaPorte, Indiana; two grandsons, Michael and Gregory Shannon.
He was preceded in death by his wife, M. JoAnn Shannon, sisters; Roberta Russel and Theressa Everroad.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Monday, December 13, 2010 at Cutler Funeral Home with Rev. Doug Baker officiating. A time of visitation will be held from 1-6 P.M. on Sunday, December 12, 2010 and from 9-10 A.M. on Monday at the Funeral Home. LaPorte Honor Guard will conduct a Flag Presentation following the Funeral Service at Cutler Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Canine Angels, Inc., 54020 North, County Line Road, New Carlisle, IN 46552 and LaPorte Salvation Army.
Please sign the online register book at www.cutlerfuneral.com