Shawn M. Laber

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shawn Michael Laber, 35, of Vermillion, SD. Shawn was a beloved partner, father, uncle, nephew, cousin, son, brother, and friend. Shawn passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer, in the loving arms of his partner. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

A memorial service will be held for Shawn at Hansen Funeral Home in Vermillion, SD, on Monday, August 12, 2024. Visitation with the family present will be held before the service from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The service will begin at 6:00 PM. Everyone is invited to join the family at Faith Fellowship Church for a meal and fellowship afterward.

Shawn was born in Boston, MA, mere seconds after his twin brother Thomas, to parents Brenda Lee Laber and Thomas Scott Laber Sr. He grew up in Campton, NH. Shawn loved being outside, whether he was riding bikes around town, by the river, or playing sports with siblings and friends. He attended Campton Elementary School and won numerous basketball tournaments. Shawn attended Plymouth Regional High School, where he made lifelong friendships.

Shawn is preceded in death by his mother, Brenda. He leaves behind his beloved Mae, Shawn Santo, and Sammy, as well as his brothers Thomas Laber and Joshua Laber, and his sister Jessica Lee Laber.

Shawn was the devoted father of Shawn Santo Lee McDonald (who will turn 10 this October) and Sammy Michael Laber (who just turned 4 on August 3rd). As a father, Shawn always encouraged and taught his boys about kindness, strength, and safety. He never missed an important moment in their lives, from concerts and teacher conferences to the first day of school and hospital visits. He envisioned his sons' becoming athletes, confident they would excel in wrestling and football.

Shawn cherished his pets, Diesel and Blanca, and had a special bond with every animal he encountered. He was also very close to his mother-in-law Diana and his partner’s grandparents, Sammy and Cheryl Saldivar. Shawn always treated them as he did his own grandparents: his late grandfather (Nonno) Santo F. Calabro and grandmother (Nonna) Cynthia Lee Calabro.

He was a loving uncle to his 2-year-old nephew, David W. Jaime III, and cherished his relationship with his sister Jessica and brother-in-law David W. Jaime Jr., who reside in Lawrence, MA. He played a significant role as an uncle to his sister-in-law Elizabeth's children: Haily (14) and Noah (7). He was looking forward to being Haily’s first dance at her Quinceañera this August. Shawn was particularly fond of his cousin Beth, who resides in Vermillion, SD.

Shawn's extended family includes his mother's adopted children, Emilee Mayotte and Jacob Mayotte, alongside many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

As an avid New England Patriots fan and a Pop Warner Champion, Shawn loved watching games with his brother Josh, best friend Morgan Kline, Dean Clodelfer, Darryl Brave, Roger Mahoney, and many other friends he made along the way. His charisma and humor brought joy to every room he entered. Shawn was dedicated to his work at the University of South Dakota, where he worked in the maintenance department specializing in boilers and HVAC. He was passionate about his job, always eager to learn and share his knowledge.

Shawn’s life was centered around his family. He invested all his free time in them, ensuring they felt his love and support. His legacy of kindness, hard work, and dedication will live on through his children and all who knew him.

Shawn Michael Laber’s memory will forever be treasured by his beloved Mae, sons, family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. May Shawn rest in peace, knowing his love and laughter will continue to resonate in our hearts.

5:00-6:00 PM Social hour / 6:00 PM Memorial Service at Hansen Funeral Home

Dinner & Fellowship to follow at Faith Fellowship of the Open Bible, 1000 SD-50, Vermillion, SD 57069

Honorary Pallbearers: Morgan Kline, Dean Clodelfer, Darryl Brave, Paul Corson, Roger Mahoney and his brother, Joshua Laber. 

The family requests you wear red or New Englad Patriots gear to the Service.  It's a celebration of life and Shawn loves the color red and his Patriots football!