In Memoriam...Dick Shannon remembered as a gentle giant
by Jacqui Streety, editor-in-chief
 

Editor’s Note: This special section of the Plainsman Press is dedicated to the memory of Dick Shannon, chairperson of the Industrial Technology Department.

It’s always a tragedy when a life is lost but even more so when it is the life of a wonderful person. Dick Shannon was a wonderful person. On Aug. 16, 2004 South Plains College and the community of West Texas lost a great teacher, an innovator a friend—a man who is remembered as kind and gentle.

He made his mark at SPC as the chairperson of the Industrial Technology Department at the Reese Center but has left a lasting impression in the hearts of those privileged enough to have known him. He was a part of this school for 22 years as a favorite among students and peers alike, as well as having helped to pioneer SPC distance learning programs. In 1998 Shannon, along with now retired chairperson of the Creative Arts Department, John Hartin, was recognized with the Excellence in Teaching Award.

But to those who knew Shannon off-campus, he was so much more. He was a crusader in animal protection programs, working avidly with Lubbock Pet Project and giving his heart and soul to saving lost and injured animals; no matter the monetary expenses.

He was a kindhearted person whom everyone loved to be around. Charming and witty, he was always eager to lend a helping hand. Whether it be to a student with car trouble, a teacher who needed a fan—or simply someone in need of a friend, Shannon was always there. Some have described him as a gentleman, never seeming to have a negative word about another.

His humor was one of his greatest attributes and seems to be what many people remember about this charismatic man. This humor was always incorporated into his classroom, his presentations to other educators and in his day-to-day conversations with those he knew.
While many people reminisce Shannon as an esteemed colleague, a superb instructor and a refined professional, many more are left with fonder memories of Dick Shannon—a man who surpassed most with his distinctiveness of a “gentlemen’s gentleman.”

His voice, which some have described as a “radio voice” will be missed ringing through the halls.

This man, so full of great character has touched the lives of so many people. His patience, integrity, sincerity and optimism will surely leave a void in the hearts of many.

To the friends and family of Dick Shannon: South Plains College accompanies you in the loss you have experienced and in the sorrow that you feel. On behalf of SPC and the Plainsman Press, prayers are sent for those who mourn. The radiance that Mr. Shannon brought to SPC will never be forgotten, it will echo through the hallways just as his voice that will surely be missed.

“I can say that for the last three years, while I was teaching at Reese, I would look forward to visiting with him every time I went out there. He was a gentlemen’s gentleman and among all the really nice people who work at SPC, he was one of the best. I can’t think of any one thing that he said that could really describe what he was all about, but I can tell you what he didn’t say. He never had a bad word to say about anyone and was always more than willing to help in any way he could. When he and I sat around discussing how would solve the problems of the world (or the problems at SPC) he would not hesitate to drop everything and go to the aid of a student who might be having school, car or personal problems. I feel quite honored to have been considered Dick’s friend. And even though some may miss him, I will REALLY miss him.” –Roland Moreira, Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems

“Dick always had something friendly say when I passed him, usually a comment on students, life in general … or our shared involvement in causes that benefit wildlife and pets. Not many people knew that Dick was an avid pet lover and spent untold dollars and hours of his time caring for pets that had been abandoned or lost. I know that lots of souls (human and animal) will miss Dick.” –Jill Haukos, Assistant Professor of Biology

“He was the consummate educator and always put his students first. I will miss him as a friend and SPC will miss him for the professional he was.” –Lee Cox, Associate Dean of Student Services

“I always thought he was a DJ before becoming a teacher because he such a great speaking voice. I looked up to Dick for his expertise and professionalism and when I first started teaching and had a question, he was there to help me. I miss him. I used to call him ‘Brother Shannon,’ when I’d see him because that’s what he was to me.” – Jim Wihlelm, Professor of Business Administration

“With the motto of ‘always be prepared’, Dick Shannon carried on with great finesse and aplomb. This was my first exposure to a teacher with a great gift for teaching and an attitude that would never accept defeat. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to know him and work with him.” – Gail Platt, Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning

“Considering the love, joy and laughter that my half Rottweiler, half German Shepherd, Frida, contributes daily to my life, I am SO greatful to Dick Shannon. He and his wife have long worked in Lubbock in behalf of animal rescue and adoption. Indeed, the Shannons were working in Petsmart the day I first saw and held my little bundle of fur. With the death of Dick, Lubbock and its surrounding communities have lost an outstanding volunteer and a wonderful individual.” –Dr. Ginny Mahan, Professor of Psychology

“Dick Shannon was a marvelous person, teacher, educator and professional and one of the gentlest people that I have ever known. He could take whatever the situation was and give it a humorous twist, unique to him and second to none. He was tall in stature, had a radio voice, a brilliant mind and found the best in every person and situation. I heard many students make glowing remarks about Dick Shannon the teacher and not once have I ever had a complaint about his teaching. He was a favorite among his colleagues, support staff and those he supervised. The people of South Plains College and his students will miss this wonderful person. This outstanding person was down-to-earth and enjoyed the world for the way it is. I ask for God’s special grace for Dick Shannon, a wonderful man.” – Dr. Dick Walsh, Provost

The SPC Foundation welcomes memorial gifts to the Family Scholarship Fund or the Founders Endowment Fund in memory of Dick Shannon. Donations can also be made in Shannon’s honor to the Lubbock Pet Project c/o Belinda Conrad, 4605 23rd St., Lubbock, Texas 79407. Condolences and cards can be sent to Shannon’s wife, Jan, at the Shannon’s address, 19009 CR 2400, Lubbock, Texas 79423.