Educator and production professional Shawn McKeown passed away May 28, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was 50.
A 1990 graduate of Manheim Township High School, Lancaster, PA, he earned a Specialized Associate degree in Recording Arts from Full Sail University, Winter Park, FL. McKeown then traveled the world as a lighting tech with the WCW wrestling federation until they disbanded. Then he continued his travels with popular rock bands, including New Found Glory, Good Charlotte, P.O.D., and Sevendust. After that, McKeown returned to teach at Full Sail, marry and start a family. When the university started giving advanced degrees, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Entertainment Business and a Master of Science degree in Education Media Design and Technology.
At the time of his death, he was employed by Full Sail University as Program Manager – Show Production. McKeown worked for Full Sail for more than 20 years holding a variety of teaching positions, including Department Chair, and Course Director. Over the course of his time there McKeown taught and mentored hundreds of students, many of who have gone on to have successful careers in the lighting and production industry.
McKeown was very involved with his sons as they were growing up, helping with baseball, soccer, and marching band. His life revolved around his family.
The son of Karen McKeown, Lancaster, PA and the late Walter McKeown, Shawn McKeown is survived by his wife, Brenda (Wiker), sons Taylor and Josh, stepdaughter Cathie, wife of Jared Weaver, Brownstown, PA, his sister, Shannon, wife of Andy Gates, Lebanon, PA, brother-in-law Bryan Harmes, Lititz, PA, grandchildren Beau, Luke, and Everlee Weaver, and numerous aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
There was no funeral but a celebration of life was held on June 14th at Full Sail University. Please donate to the American Cancer Society, or the GoFundMe (https://gofund.me/a255905e) set up for the family.
