ROCHELLE — Greg Shannon, 67, of Rochelle, passed away Wednesday, March 23 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. He was born Aug. 2, 1954 in Bismarck, North Dakota, the son of James and Celesta (Gross) Shannon.

Most people remember Greg for his razor-sharp wit and endless humor. He was quick to tell a crude joke or raunchy, humourism story or make a downright cutting remark. If you gave him enough time, you get to the flip side. A kind-hearted, trustworthy and genuine person with true musical talent, endless creativity and a desire to help others in need, Greg would be the first to tell you how proud he was of his stepson Jason, and his grandkids, Hank and Molly. He cared so dearly for the many pets throughout his life. Later in life, his kitties were everything to him and they always got the best of him. If he could have housed and fed the entire city population of cats, he probably would have. 

He loved to guide his siblings, nieces, nephews, and cousins or even kids in the neighborhood in the ways of the world and, more often, how best to get into trouble. Greg was known as the “bad influence” in the family, the stories are never-ending. Some naughty joke or song he would teach them at a family gathering. He would take his nieces and nephews, at the ripe age of 10, to boat shows or auto shows and make them take pictures of half-naked women with them at the booths. Greg would inspire them with inappropriate songs he would teach them on the piano or with some clever words of wisdom. He loved to help people, even teaching his 8-year-old nephew how to drive. His laugh was infectious and when he got to belly-laughing his relatives couldn’t help but to join in. He loved a good prank, too. Hiding in a mound of leaves and jumping out at the unsuspecting kids on Halloween.

Greg’s uncanny ability to play any musical instrument was legendary. He loved music, like most of his family, and played in many bands throughout the years. He was a talented singer as well. 

His life was cut short, and he surely still had more hell to raise on earth. Greg had endured years of bad health but is now pain-free. In true “Greg-fashion” though, we won’t get too mushy because he didn’t believe in that and would probably call you a dirty name for showing any emotion at his passing. Instead, in his honor, please take a moment to toast his life and the fond memories that will live on, any drink will do, even a Pepsi. 

Greg is survived by his mother, Celesta Reed; step-son, Jason (Sarah) Moline and their children Molly and Hank Moline; six siblings, Jim (Athena) Shannon, Gary (Connie) Shannon, Mary Suddeth, Vicki Doughty, Sally (Lyle) Ranken and Mike (Christen) Shannon; numerous nieces and nephews and his four cats.

Greg is preceded in death by his father, James Shannon; infant brother, Roger Shannon and two brothers-in-law, Howard Suddeth and Tom Doughty.

Cremation care has been provided by the Torman Funeral Home, Paw Paw. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Contributions in Greg's memory may be directed to an animal shelter of the donor's choice. Please visit www.TormanFuneralHome.com to sign the online guest book.