In Remembrance

William “Bill” Thomas Shogren
May 16, 1944-December 3, 2023
Bill passed away Sunday evening December 3, 2023 peacefully in his home, surrounded by
family, after a short but tough battle with cancer.
Bill was born in Duluth on May 16, 1944 to Theodore “Pete” and Cecelia Shogren. He grew up in
the Duluth Heights and Central Hillside neighborhoods, attending Cathedral High School where
he graduated from in 1962. He then went on to become a Sergeant in the United States Army
1966-1969. Proudly serving our country overseas in the Vietnam War.
Upon return from his service, he moved into the Woodland neighborhood of Duluth with his
wife where he raised his three children. Bill retired from the Duluth News Tribune where he
was a typographer. He started off on the old ink setting machines, evolving to computer
programs over the years.
In 1986 Bill settled down with the love of his life, Mary, after picking her up for their first date at
the Duluth airport on her return from a Las Vegas trip. They lived a life happily together; mostly
spending time with grandchildren and going on many vacations. His favorite destinations being
Branson, MO and Eureka Springs, AK for their beautiful golf courses and music shows.
Golf was a huge passion of his. Watching the pros on TV, playing countless rounds, and proudly
teaching his grandchildren. When he wasn’t doing something golf related, you could catch him
scrolling between the news stations, weather channels, or watching a Kansas City Chiefs game.
Bill will be most remembered and missed for the way he loved and valued his family. No matter
what he was doing, he always was thinking of them above everything and doing whatever he
could to make them happy. You could always count on him to show up to every event, big or
small. Sports games, music concerts, graduations, birthday parties, even baby showers. He was
always there with a smile on his face. And of course, the perfect card, which he thoughtfully and
meticulously spent time choosing just for you and the occasion.
He was preceded in death by; his parents, infant brother, sister in law Kathy, niece Julie, and
grandson Craig.
Bill is survived by the love of his life, Mary Knutson. Children: David Shogren, Andrea Shogren,
and Annette (Billy) Swanson. Grandchildren: Layla (Tyler), Phalecia, Elijah, Isabella, Ariel, Dante,
and Haley. Great Grandchildren: Levi, Dax, Colt, and Isla. Brothers: Dick, Jack, and Terry (Patty)
Shogren. He is also survived by the four bonus children he gained when he met Mary: Vicki,
Bissa, Eva, and Michael Knutson; along with seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
Bill was loved by many and will be dearly missed. His family and friends will forever cherish the
memories made, the knowledge received, and love that was experienced.