Shannon R. Gorman

After a long and courageous battle, Shannon R. Gorman joined the angels on December 3, 2022 in Albany NY surrounded in the love of her family. Shannon received her diagnosis of breast cancer in 2008 with grace and tenacity, and she was determined that this diagnosis did not define the course of her life. She remained a brave, iron-willed woman, even throughout her final months.

Shannon was born on November 2, 1970 in Gloversville, NY. People frequently commented on what a beautiful child Shannon was. As a child, Shannon also loved spending time with her grandfather Tompsie Gorman, and her Uncle Michael Gorman who contributed greatly to her unique sense of humor. Her Auntie M was significant support from childhood until her last breath. As a teenager, Shannon was an accomplished racewalker, who competed in the Junior Olympics at the national level. Shannon was a talented singer who enjoyed singing with the church choir. Shannon loved animals, was never without a pet and volunteered in animal rescue efforts. She was a very social young woman, which did not change as she aged.

Shannon served in the Veterans' Administration for thirty three years, in a number of capacities. Her dedication to the men and women who served her country was evident in her passionate engagement in their care. In fact, she was recognized with several awards during her career. She was well known in the hospital as a force to be reckoned with and would accept nothing less than exceptional care for every Veteran who entered the facility. In spite of her advancing pain and illness, Shannon refused to stop working due to her extreme commitment to the Veteran population.

Shannon was very involved in a number of cancer support groups. She was very generous with people that she met along her journey with knowledge and resources. Despite Shannon's own struggles, she was always present to listen or lend advice to others walking a similar path, especially if it meant helping them find success in their process.

Shannon was blessed to meet the love of her life, Sean Mack. Knowing that one of Shannon's life long wishes was to ride in a hot air balloon, he arranged for a sunrise balloon ride where he proposed. Sean was a loving and dedicated partner to Shannon and never allowed her diagnosis to impede them from having a fulfilling life together. It was clear to her family that the love they shared was extraordinary.

Shannon is also survived by her parents William and Joanne Gorman, her sisters Kelly Gorman (Robert Virant), Tara Harbeck (Keith) and brother Terrence Gorman (Mandi). She was the aunt of Emma Kate and Evan Paul Harbeck, Eamon Joseph Gorman and Robert Dakota Virant. Her loss will be felt by Kathy and Larry DiMaggio, Theresa Wallace, and many cousins and friends.

Calling hours begin at 12:00pm on Sunday December 11, 2022, culminating in a Celebration of Life starting at 1:30pm at New Comer at 343 New Karner Road in Colonie. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation in Shannon's name.