Shannon Leso

Born on April 8, 1956, in Gilroy, CA, to Ambrose (Ami) and Lea Leso, Shannon led a life marked by intellect, discipline, and unwavering dedication. A graduate of Live Oak High School, he was an avid athlete and a black belt in karate. His pursuit of knowledge led him to Gavilan Junior College and later to San Jose State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism. While at San Jose State, he participated in the Army ROTC program, commissioning as a Second Lieutenant upon graduation.

Shannon’s military career was distinguished and honorable. He completed both Ranger and Airborne schools before being assigned to the 3rd Armored Division in Budingen, West Germany, near the East German border. He later served at Fort Riley, Kansas, with the 1st Infantry Division—The Big Red One—before concluding his service.

With an enduring passion for history and education, Shannon continued his academic journey at Fresno State, earning a master’s degree in history in 1989. He embarked on a fulfilling teaching career in 1987 at Lincoln School and became one of the founding educators of Sanger Academy Charter in 2000, where he remained until his retirement in 2021. He was a mentor who inspired students to think beyond convention, often reminding them, “You are only limited by your own creativity.” Whether coaching chess, Odyssey of the Mind, or Destination Imagination, Shannon’s sharp wit, steadfast discipline, and boundless knowledge made him a beloved and respected educator.

In 1986, Shannon met the love of his life, Karen, and they married in 1988, building a life filled with love and laughter in Sanger. A devoted husband and father, he took immense pride in his daughters, Marie and Carmen. An adventurer at heart, he shared his love of birding, hiking, and camping with his family, creating cherished memories on countless excursions. He found joy in the simple pleasures—a crisp spring morning, a compelling book, and the company of those he loved most.

Shannon was preceded in death by his parents, Ami and Lea Leso. He is survived by his wife, Karen Leso; daughter Marie Roberts, son-in-law Ben Roberts, and grandchildren Stella, Juliet, and Lorenzo of Orange Cove, CA; daughter Carmen Leso of Olympia, WA; sister Karen Hegglin (Eli) of Morgan Hill, CA; and brother Rusty Leso (Bev) of York, PA. He also leaves behind a legacy carried forward by his nieces and nephew.

In honor of Shannon’s life, donations may be made to Nancy Hinds Hospice Home, the American Cancer Society, Woodward Park Church of Christ, or your local public library.

Private services were held.

Shannon will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but Shannon's memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of sharing in his life.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whitehurstsullivan.com for the Leso family.