Obituary of Shawn Traverse McKenna

Shawn Traverse McKenna passed away after a long illness, surrounded by the love of his mother, sisters, his brother-in-law, and two dear friends at his twin sister’s home in Colchester, Connecticut. Born on April 28, 1978, in Burlington, Vermont, Shawn brought a unique take on the world as well as a light and spirit that remained with him throughout his life.

He is and will always remain the beloved son of Carol “McKenna” Urick, the cherished brother of his older sister, Christina “Tina” McKenna Weinberg, and the inseparable twin of Jayme Frances “McKenna” Lemaire who he proclaimed as his “other half.” Shawn’s greatest pride was his two daughters, Julie Rose McKenna of South Windsor, CT, and Rylee Nicole McKenna of Tampa, FL, who will carry his love forward in their hearts. He also leaves behind his treasured nephew, Dylan Eugene Lemaire of Coventry, CT.

Shawn is survived by his father, James F. McKenna of Wisconsin; his beloved brother in law, Neil Weinberg, Jr., his uncle and aunt, Michael T. and Cindy Pimental of Shippensburg, PA; his godmother, Marianne Record of Taunton, MA; and his cousins: Sandy Quadros Bowles (New Bedford, MA), Kevin Christopher and his wife Anna (Wolcott, CT), Cheryl Meola (Greenville, NC), and Matthew Pimental and his wife Azy (PA). Alongside his family, he leaves behind countless friends whose lives were enriched by his humor, loyalty, and spirit.

A graduate of Middleboro High School, Shawn was a proud and long-standing member of the Operating Engineers Local 825 in New Jersey. He took great pride in his work, which gave him not just a livelihood, but a sense of purpose and connection.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 18 at Mulryan Funeral Home, 725 Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury, CT from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. followed by a brief ceremony at 6:00 p.m at the funeral home.