Shannon (Kuhns) Hamner

Shannon Rene Hamner was born on July 11, 1969, in Winterset, Iowa, to David W. and Patricia E. Kuhns. She passed away Thursday, September 3, 2026 at her home in Norwalk.

Shannon grew up in Winterset and graduated from Winterset High School in 1987. Growing up, Shannon was a wild child and quite the spitfire. She went from chasing butterflies in the outfield during Little League softball to driving her lifted 1970s Ford truck with the music cranked up, trying to conquer a large pile of corn or tearing down Level B roads.

Shannon met the love of her life, Brian J. Hamner, while working the night shift at Eaton Corporation. The two were married on February 14, 1997, as part of a radio event called “Numerous Nuptials,” where they exchanged vows alongside hundreds of other couples.

Shannon and Brian welcomed two children, Tobias and Olivia, who were her whole world. She loved her children fiercely and would never let anything or anyone harm them. Shannon also had a deep love for animals, and dogs were always an important part of the family.

After her time at Eaton Corporation, Shannon worked in the reception areas of several medical offices, most recently at The Iowa Clinic. She had a passion for helping others and truly enjoyed working in healthcare.

Shannon’s love for animals extended beyond those at home. At work, she became affectionately known as the “squirrel lady.” She had Brian make a squirrel feeder and faithfully fed the squirrels every day—to the point that they even recognized her car.

Shannon and Brian loved riding their motorcycle together and traveling. Her happy place was Maui, where they visited several times, along with many other tropical destinations. Shannon was always happiest sitting on a beach and soaking up the sunshine, especially when she could escape the Iowa cold in January.

She also enjoyed volunteering with IWSH (International Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Foundation), participating twice a year in efforts to provide needed products to homeless shelters and women’s centers.

Shannon was the brightest light in every room she entered and had a way of putting a smile on the faces of those around her. She loved deeply and made sure the people in her life knew just how much they meant to her. Shannon will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Shannon was preceded in death by her mother, Patricia Kuhns; and her parents-in-law, Ronny and Patty Hamner.

She is survived by her husband, Brian Hamner; her children, Tobias and Olivia; her father, David Kuhns; her sister, Shelly Kuhns; her sister-in-law, Jody Hamner; her niece, Savannah Marker; her nephew, Reece Nuzum; her beloved fur baby, Maverick; and her fur grand-dog, Kurt.

A gathering with family and friends will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Winterset Chapel. 

Memorials may be made to the Raccoon River Pet Rescue (14360 Ivy Pl, Perry, IA 50220).