Shauna Lee Dakken passed away from breast cancer in Edina, Minnesota on May 31, at the age of 54. She was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, teacher, and friend and left behind a legacy of strength, determination, and unwavering faith. She was always willing to stand up for what she believed.
Shauna was born to Kelly and Sharon Dakken in Grand Forks, ND on September 4, 1970. She grew up in Drayton, ND and was active in speech, drama, music, and sports. In the summers, she especially loved lifeguarding, teaching swimming lessons, and managing the Drayton Community Pool. Shauna attended Drayton Public School (ND) and graduated in 1989. She started college at Southwest State University in Marshall, MN, but completed her degree in Grand Forks from the University of North Dakota in 1994. She graduated with a Bachelor of Art in Elementary and Middle School Education, which was later followed with a Master's Degree in Education. As a middle school English teacher, she dedicated over 25 years to shaping young minds in Albert Lea, MN. She loved being a student and continued with her education with an online degree from Life Christian University with a Master of Arts in Theology in 2013.
From 2022 through 2024, she lived in Florida to attend The River University and obtained a Bachelor of Art in Ministry in May 2025.
As a deeply committed Christian, Shauna's faith and beliefs guided her through life's challenges and triumphs. Throughout her life, she was deeply involved with her church, participated in ministries, and offered a helping hand whenever it was needed. Shauna's impact will continue to live on in the lives of the students she taught, the friends she uplifted, and the family who will forever hold her in their hearts.
Shauna is survived by her mother, Sharon Dakken Pasche; sisters, Sheri (Todd) Hetler, and Dawn (Ben) Jacobson; nieces and nephews who were cherished, Kellie (Jake) Muhs, Caleb and Emma Hetler; Hunter and Tanner Jacobson. Also special to her were aunts, uncles, and cousins who will always remember her laughter and unwavering love. She was preceded in death by her father, Kelly E. Dakken; her grandparents, Don and Dee Boggetto, and Kermit and Betty Dakken.
A celebration of Shauna's life will be held on Friday, June 13 at Christian Family Church in Edina, MN. The memorial visitation starts at 10:00 A.M. with the service following at 11:00 A.M. A burial service will be held at the cemetery in Drayton, ND at a later date. The family asks that any donations made are to her church, Christian Family Church, in Edina, MN, or to the Drayton Community Swimming Pool, in ND, in her memory.
Shauna lived life on her own terms, embraced every experience fully, and left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was truly one of a kind. Her influence, passion, and love will never be forgotten.