Shannon Arlene Kneff Hardy, BHS 1963

Shannon Arlene Hardy

Ventura County Star, Ventura, CA, June 5, 2005

Our loving wife and friend passed away on the morning of June 1, 2005. She courageously battled pancreatic cancer for more than a year before bravely succumbing with her husband and children at her side.

Shannon is survived by her husband of 40 years, Bill Hardy; brother, Dennis Kneff; children, Bret Hardy and Stacey Ross; grandchildren, Samantha Hardy, Blake Hardy, Peyton Ross and Caden Ross; foster child, Candace Henderson, one grandchild due in July; and a loving of extended family members.

She was the daughter of Charles and Patricia Kneff, born 1945 in Los Angeles. She was raised in Burbank and attended Burbank High School. She earned her bachelor's degree from California State University, Northridge in 1968 and moved to Simi Valley, where she resided for the past 37 years. Shannon was a junior and senior high school teacher, coach and advisor for more than 34 years in Simi Valley. Before retiring two years ago, she devoted her life to her family and close friends, and to literally thousands of children and young adults who she taught coached and advised in the classroom, athletic fields, drill team and cheer-leading.

BHS Song Leader

Shannon had a zest and passion for life. She jumped into every opportunity that life presented with both feet. hands and heart. She was a competitor. She challenged all to work hard, practice, try our best.....but always enjoy the experience. For our wife , mother and friend, it wasn't about the outcome, but rather the journey! She is loved by those who knew her kindness, compassion and unselfish spirit. We are better people because of her lessons of dedication and commitment. We will continue to live life to its fullest every day, but because this too is what she would want. Shannon will be missed, but never forgotten.

The family wishes to express a sincere and heartfelt thank you to the many individuals who provided care and assistance to Shannon over the past year.

The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Royal High School with a memo to The Hardy Family Memorial Scholarship. Donations may be mailed to Royal High School ASB, 1402 Royal Ave., Simi Valley, CA 93065.