Justin Kyle Shaughnessy, age 36, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in Chetek, Wisconsin on January 22, 2025. He was a beloved and cherished husband, father, son, son-in-law, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and devoted friend to many.

Justin was born on December 20, 1988, in Waco, Texas, to Joseph and Lucy Shaughnessy. He graduated from Midway High School, completed his undergraduate degree at Texas State University, and eventually earned his Master’s Degree at Westminster College. His impact on the lives of others was immeasurable in his fulfilling and influential career that began as a registered nurse and culminated as a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA). His passion for caring for others with the dignity and kindness they are worthy of spilled out onto all facets of his life, leaving no one untouched. On December 29, 2012, on what can only be described as a perfect day, Justin married his best friend, Kristy Swanson. This was the beginning of a grand adventure together. Their lives and hearts were knit together, sharing purpose, hopes, and dreams, as they journeyed from Texas to Utah, then Minnesota, and eventually to Chetek, Wisconsin. Through the joys, trials, triumphs, and sorrows of life, Justin and Kristy were remade into something new, becoming what neither could have been alone. On this pilgrimage through life, they were joined by three beautiful children: Reagan Leigh, Jameson Scott, and Arden Elise. These three unique and incredible children were undoubtedly the greatest adventure Kristy and Justin would experience. Justin’s greatest joy was his family, and his devotion to his wife and children was evident and admired by all.

Justin enjoyed spending time with family and friends and was always willing and eager to experience something new with those he loved. A lover of the outdoors, Justin accepted any opportunity to fish, hunt, and explore God’s beautiful creation. He was also a sports enthusiast and is remembered for his childhood pursuits of football and soccer. As a dad, Justin was able to merge his love of sports with his love of teaching and coaching his kids. His patient, gentle nature was present both on and off the field. Through all Justin’s years of living in different, unique locations, he was able to create a community from all walks of life. All who knew him, loved him. It was impossible not to. His bright smile, boisterous laugh and booming voice, and welcoming demeanor were infectious. The Lord, in His grace, placed Justin in our lives as husband, father, son, and brother, as well as advocate, companion, encourager, and friend. Our hearts are hollowed by this loss. Justin Kyle Shaughnessy will always be loved and never forgotten. His memory and legacy will live on in his wife and children.

In addition to his beloved family, Justin is survived by his parents, Joseph and Lucy Shaughnessy, as well as his loving brother, Ryan. He was like a son to his in-laws, Scott and Susan Swanson. Amy Shaughnessy, Ryan’s Wife, and Whitney Lopas, Kristy’s sister, along with her husband, Brian, had the privilege and honor of calling Justin their brother-in-law. Justin’s playful spirit lives on in his many nieces and nephews: Emma Shaughnessy, Avery Shaughnessy, Riley Shaughnessy, Abigail Lopas, Braylon Lopas, Owen Lopas, Sophia Lopas, Declan Lopas, and Corrigan Lopas.

A funeral service to celebrate and honor the life of Justin will be held at 11AM Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Appleyard’s Home for Funerals in Rice Lake, WI. A time of visitation with the family will be held for one hour prior to the funeral service. There will also be a luncheon and gathering afterwards at the Rice Lake Elk’s Lodge.

Last Update: Jan 26, 2025 12:15 pm CST