Shannon Carole Grillo

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Shannon Carole Grillo, who left us far too soon and unexpectedly while sailing in the Bahamas on February 4, 2026. She was 56 years old and brought warmth, laughter, and light to everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Shannon was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, where she met and married her high school sweetheart, Donald. While the two were attending Purdue University, they welcomed their first daughter, Traci. After moving to Minnesota, they completed their family with their second daughter, Jenna.

Shannon began her career in healthcare as a surgical technologist, a field she cared for deeply, but ultimately chose to devote herself fully to raising her daughters. She was a present, loving, and endlessly supportive mother—always involved, always loved her girls with a fierceness and tenderness that defined her life. Becoming a grandmother to Carter brought her a whole new kind of joy; she embraced that role with the same wholehearted love she gave to everything and everyone.

Shannon made friends everywhere she went. She was warm, lively, fun‑loving, and kind—someone who would drop everything to help the people she loved. She had a way of making others feel comforted, appreciated, and truly seen.

In her later years, Shannon and Don embraced a life of adventure. They enjoyed flying their plane, whether it was to a neighboring state for dinner, or across the country to visit family or vacation. After retiring, they left their life in Minnesota to live aboard their sailboat, exploring new places, and savoring every moment together. She lived life fully and joyfully, with an open heart and a spirit that inspired everyone around her.

Shannon is preceded in death by her father, Lynn Anderson. She is survived by her husband, Donald Grillo; daughters, Traci Grillo and Jenna (Brooks) Helling; granddaughter, Carter Helling; mother, Judith Anderson; brother, Brent (Jennifer) Anderson; and many other relatives and friends who will forever feel her absence.

A celebration of Shannon’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at Starkson Family ~ Anderson Chapel, 14850 Garrett Ave., Apple Valley, with visitation one hour prior. The family invites guests to dress in their best tropical attire to honor Shannon and celebrate her life.

Arrangements by Starkson Family ~ Anderson Chapel of Apple Valley.