Shannon Lynch

Shannon Lynch, 94, of Waukee, formerly of Varina, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family.

A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, Aug. 22, at 11 a.m. at St. Columbkille Catholic Church in Varina. Interment will follow at St. Columbkille Catholic Cemetery. The day will begin with a family-led rosary at 9:30 a.m., followed by visitation starting at approximately 10 a.m. After the burial, all are invited to join the family for a luncheon in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Carmelite Nuns of Sioux City or St. Boniface Catholic Church in Waukee. Sympathies may be mailed to Lynch Family, 8942 Linden St., West Des Moines, IA 50266. Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake is handling arrangements.

Born Dec. 16, 1929, in Varina to August “Gus” and Leona (Fitzgerald) Kapsch, Shannon was a woman whose life was defined by her deep faith, boundless love and joyful spirit. Baptized and confirmed at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, Shannon remained a devoted member until the church's closure. Her Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her being. Her days were filled with prayer, often spent with rosary in hand, seeking comfort and guidance from Jesus and the Blessed Mother for every challenge and joy that came her way.

Shannon attended St. Columbkille Catholic High School, graduating in 1948. Even in her youth, her nurturing spirit shone brightly as she lovingly cared for her siblings, often baking them her delicious chocolate cakes and ensuring they made it to school each day.

On April 10, 1951, Shannon married the love of her life, Francis Lynch, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. Their union was blessed with four children: Marcia, Cindy, Becky and Terry. Together, Shannon and Francis created a home filled with love, kindness and faith.

Shannon’s strong work ethic was matched only by her generosity and talent in the kitchen. She spent many years working at Walsh Lockers, Sundholm’s Factory and the Varina Elevator before serving as a postal worker for the United States Postal Service. Shannon's grandchildren fondly remember accompanying her on her mail routes, marveling at her strength as she effortlessly handled heavy mailbags.

However, it was Shannon’s baking that truly made her a legend among family and friends. Her cinnamon rolls, pies, scotcheroos and noodles were cherished by all who were fortunate enough to taste them. These treats were not just food, but expressions of the love she poured into everything she did.

Shannon was also deeply involved in her community. She was a dedicated member of the Varina Library Board, Varina Legion Auxiliary, Catholic Daughters of America and Holy Family. In her free time, Shannon loved playing cards with friends and family, often engaging in friendly but competitive games that brought her great joy.

Shannon had a zest for life that extended beyond her kitchen. She and Francis were avid dancers, with Shannon leading the way and teaching Francis how to keep up with her on the dance floor. Their love for dancing reflected the joy and harmony they shared throughout their marriage.

Shannon’s love for her family was boundless. She cherished every moment spent with them, whether during family gatherings or simple, everyday moments. To be loved by Shannon was to know a love that was unconditional, unwavering and rooted in her deep faith.

Though Shannon will be deeply missed, those who knew and loved her take comfort in knowing she is now in the presence of the Lord, joyfully reunited with her beloved Francis, her favorite dance partner.

Shannon is survived by her children: Marcia Lynch, Cindy (Jerry) Christenson, Becky Lynch and Terry (Laurie) Lynch; her grandchildren: John (Christy) Christenson, Lisa (David) Spaeth, Laura (fiancé Adam Wicks) Kunkel and Kayla (Drew) Engebrecht; and her great-grandchildren: Braelee Kunkel; Nolan and Jordyn Spaeth; Isaac and Lucas Christenson. She is also survived by her siblings: Patrick (Doris) Kapsch and Linda Groff; sister-in-law Betty Sego; brother-in-law Marlyn Null; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Shannon was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Francis Lynch; parents Gus and Leona Kapsch; siblings: Bob (Peg) Kapsch, Maureen (Tom) Lilly and Charles (Dorothy) Kapsch; infant brother Michael Kapsch; and her siblings-in-law: Patrick Groff, Margaret (Vern) Olberding, Ed (Ike) Lynch, Carmie Null and Hank Sego.

Shannon Lynch lived a life full of faith, love and joy. Her legacy of devotion to God and her family will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.