Patrick James Shannon, age 80 from Vergas, MN. passed away peacefully at home on April 13, 2025, under the care of Hospice of the Red River Valley. He was born in Michigan City, Indiana on October 14, 1944, to Orval and Gloria (Langenfeld) Shannon. Patrick graduated from Frazee High School, attended college for a short time and then joined the US Air Force. After an honorable discharge he continued his education, getting a Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Denver, CO. Before long he was attending Moorhead State University taking pottery classes. He made and sold pottery for many years, until a Fargo store owner who sold his work had an unusual request. She asked if Pat could make a steel Kokopelli complete with a copper head whose arms displayed women’s clothing. He had just purchased a welder, so the timing was perfect, and thus a new career started in 2000. Patrick and Helena opened Forest Edge Gallery in the spring of 2005. He was involved in designing and creating metal art and pottery up to the last month of his life. Patrick was known for his generosity, humility, humor and love of his community. Many of his pieces were made for charitable events and for placement in Vergas and the surrounding area. He was involved in many community projects in Vergas. His was a life well lived. He leaves behind artwork spread across the United States as well as many pieces abroad. His creativity lives on in the beauty he left behind. 

He is survived by his life partner Helena Johnson, brother Terry (Jean) Shannon, loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of longtime friends. 

Preceded in death by his parents, brother Michael, son David Riggle, a niece and a nephew.

We thank the doctors and nurses at Roger Maris Cancer Center in Fargo ND. and Perham, MN. and Hospice of the Red River Valley for the wonderful care they all provided for Patrick. 

Please join us for a Celebration of Life on Sunday, July 13th, 2025, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Forest Edge Gallery (46461 295th Ave, Vergas, MN 56587).

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com