Monday, February 10, 2025
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Shannon H. Barden

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Shannon H. Barden, age 48, of Merrill, WI, passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at Howard Young Medical Center in Woodruff, WI.  Shannon was born in Merrill, WI, on May 13, 1976, to Frederick and Sherry (Benson) Barden.  He was married to Christine Uttecht on October 2, 2004; she survives.

Shannon was a 1994 graduate of the Merrill High School.  He was a talented chef who worked primarily in Wausau, WI, at various restaurants including Hereford and Hops, Green Mill Restaurant and Bar, and the Hoffman House, which was where he met his bride of 20 years.  He was a gifted musician who spent many hours in his recording studio.  Shannon expressed himself beautifully through music.  A kind and genuine heart, he was a good listener who loved helping others.  Family and friends knew they could always count on him.  Shannon was a huge animal lover.  His cats, Gibson, Bert, Bella, Behr, JJ, and Munky, were like his children and a big comfort to him.  He played benefits and participated in countless fundraisers for several humane societies, creating “Metal for Mutts” and “Cats and Tatts”.  His many tattoos told the story of his life.

Survivors include his wife, Christine Barden, of Merrill, WI; his father, Frederick (Judy) Barden, of Blair, WI; his mother, Sherry (Daniel) Hodkiewicz, of Merrill, WI; his brother, Shad (Leidy) Barden, of Missouri; his father-in-law, Ronald Uttecht; his sister-in-law, Jeannie (Dan) Larson; and his brother-in-law, John (Sara) Uttecht, all of Birnamwood, WI.  Shannon is further survived by his niece, Gaia Barden; and his nephew, Hazard Barden.  He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Norman and Reta Benson; and his mother-in-law, Darlene Uttecht.

A celebration of life gathering will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at the Town of Merrill Community Center, from 12:00 PM until 4:00 PM.  Generations Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.  You may view Shannon’s obituary and leave online condolences at generationsfuneral.com.