November 4, 1957 - August 31, 2020
On August 31st 2020, a beautiful sunset filled the sky as Shaun Patrick McCracken was surrounded by loved ones, and his spirit passed on peacefully to the other side.
Shaun fought a long battle with cancer, and he held on to life with fervour and courage. He is forever in our hearts, and he will never be forgotten. Shaun's laugh was contagious, his love unconditional, and his kindness was shared with open generosity.
Shaun was born in Wales to parents Mona and Martin McCracken. He is survived by his wife Heidi McCracken; his dear son Liam; his sisters Maureen and Janine; his nieces Carrie, Jessie, and Sara; and his nephews Christopher and Jamie. He is greeted on the other side by his parents and his sister Tara.
Shaun came to Canada with his family when he was a young boy, and as a young man he came to live on Vancouver Island. He studied music at Malaspina University-College where he developed his talent as a musician, and learned to become a skilled sound engineer.
Shaun played in many bands, and was a sound technician for countless live performances. While working as a sound engineer at the Queen's Hotel in Nanaimo, Shaun met the love of his life. Heidi and Shaun were married in 2007, and Heidi cared for Shaun with awe-inspiring love and devotion until his passing. He will be missed beyond words by his soul-mate Heidi, and by his puppy Newton.
Shaun will also be so deeply missed by many friends and fellow musicians. He was an advocate for many up-and-coming performers. He took many young musicians under his wing and gave them a much needed chance to play with experienced professionals, and to become established musicians themselves. Shaun's loss will be felt and grieved for a long time to come by a great number of people in the music community. He was a sweetheart.
To celebrate his life and to honour his memory Shaun would want us to raise a glass, have a laugh, and to share our stories. He would want us to play our music with passion, turn it up loud, and send our love up like a heartfelt song that resonates through the heavens. It has been a pleasure to know and love you Shaun McCracken. May you rest in peace.
Details regarding a gathering in celebration of Shaun's life will be shared soon.