Shannon Reuss — Eyota

Shannon Reuss, 45, of Eyota, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2015, in her home after an 11½- year journey with ovarian cancer.

Shannon Marie (Helfritz) Reuss was born on April 18, 1970, in Columbus, Ohio, to William and Janice (Greiner) Helfritz. She graduated from Watertown High School in Minnesota and attended St. Olaf College, receiving a bachelor's degree in nursing in 1992. On July 10, 1993, she married Peter Reuss in Watertown.

Shannon worked as a psychiatric nurse in the VA hospital system from 1992 through 1997 before staying home to raise their son, Benjamin. In her spare time, she started a business, Treefrog Treasures, building one of the premier retailers of military miniatures in the world. She prided herself on building relationships within the industry, and will be greatly missed. Her work took her around the world, with cherished trips to Buenos Aires, Hong Kong, Shanghai and London.

Singing always played an important role in Shannon's life. Every church she was a member of benefited from her lovely voice. Shannon had a passion for genealogy, meticulously researching her family tree. She loved nature, taking walks in the woods, spending time at the lake, and taking photos to savor it all.

Shannon is survived by her husband, Peter; her son, Benjamin; her parents of Wells; her brother, William (Tara) Helfritz II of Rosemount; her sister, Laura (Rondedrick) Sinville of Otsego; as well as numerous other family members.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents.

Funeral services will be on Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 11 a.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Rochester, with Bishop Steven Delzer and Pastor Dan Doering officiating. Visitation will be on Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home, and for 1½ hours prior to the service at Good Shepherd. Shannon's ashes will be laid to rest at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Peace Lutheran Church of Eyota, and will be used to create a food pantry for the city of Eyota.

Macken Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.