Shannon Manry Bielaska

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shannon Manry Bielaska, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Shannon departed this world on July 14, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and service.

Born on November 6, 1950, in Rochester, NY, Shannon was the cherished daughter of William P. Manry and Dorette Dresser Manry. She was predeceased by her loving parents and her brother, Steven Manry Sr., whose memories she held close to her heart.

Shannon was a proud graduate of Irondequoit High School, class of 1968, and furthered her education at the University at Buffalo, earning a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education in 1972. Her thirst for knowledge led her to Ithaca College, where she received her Master's degree in 1974, followed by an Associate's Degree in Computer Programming from Monroe Community College in 1977.

Shannon's career was marked by her exceptional skills and leadership. She served as a computer programmer for Information Associates before joining Xerox Corporation as a Project Leader. Her talents were recognized and sought after, leading her to EDS Corporation, where she worked as a Project Manager until her well-deserved retirement in 2005.

A woman of many interests, Shannon was an avid music lover who shared her talents as a French horn player with several community bands, including the Greece Community Band, Irondequoit Concert Band, and the Kodak Band. Her passion for skiing and helping others led her to serve on the Swain Ski Patrol for 13 years. After retiring, she dedicated her winters to volunteering with the Sun City Center EMS squad in Florida, obtaining her EMT certificate with pride.

Shannon's heart was as big as her smile; a gift she generously shared with everyone she met. Her kindness and generosity touched countless lives. As an active member and volunteer with the YMCA of Greater Rochester for over 30 years, she embodied the spirit of community service.

In 1976, Shannon married the love of her life, Matthew John Bielaska Jr. Together, they celebrated 49 years of marriage and raised two wonderful children, Mark Edward Bielaska and Meredith Ann Bielaska. She was the proud grandmother of Grace, Kris, and Jean Bielaska, whose lives were immeasurably enriched by her love and guidance.

In honor of Shannon's memory, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the YMCA of Greater Rochester, an organization close to her heart.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff at St. Joseph's Hospital in Tampa and Tampa General Hospital for the exceptional care and support provided to Shannon and her family during her battle with Multiple Myeloma.

Shannon's life was a beacon of light and love. Though she may no longer walk among us, her spirit will forever inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched, the music she loved, and the family she adored. A Celebration of Life will be held next spring in both Sun City Center, FL, and in Rochester, NY, in the summer. More information will be provided by the family at those times. Shannon will be dearly missed and eternally cherished.