Colleen Mary Shaw (Koref) was born on August 22, 1961, the youngest child to Lorraine B. Shaw and Sheldon David Shaw and passed on July 13 2026.
From the very beginning, Colleen defied the odds. Born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita, she lived far beyond what the “experts” ever predicted. She didn’t just survive, she lived. She faced every challenge with determination, courage, and a fierce independence that became the hallmark of her life.
She walked. Boy, did she walk. Walking across the stage at her high school graduation was one of countless milestones she achieved that many thought impossible. Colleen spent her life proving that limitations existed only to be challenged, and she never allowed anyone else to define what she could or could not accomplish.
Throughout her life, Colleen held a variety of communications roles, most recently served as The President of Resident Council for the community she resided. Colleen made friends everywhere she went, and embraced every opportunity to experience the world around her. She drove her own car, maintained her independence, and lived life on her own terms. She also drove the rest of us just a little crazy with her endless love of the Jackson 5 and Kool & the Gang, music that seemed to follow her wherever she went.
Colleen had a true zest for life. She loved to dance, really dance, as though no one was watching. Her infectious laugh, quick wit, and unmistakable spitfire attitude could brighten a room and keep everyone on their toes. She was strong-willed, outspoken, and never afraid to say exactly what was on her mind.
Above all else, Colleen’s greatest joy was her family. Her daughter, Brittney and her granddaughter, McKenna, were the lights of her life and the center of her world. She loved them fiercely and unconditionally, celebrating every accomplishment, offering endless encouragement, and cherishing every moment she spent with them.
Colleen leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, laughter, resilience, and love. She taught those around her that life is not measured by the obstacles we face, but by the determination with which we face them.
She is survived by her daughter Brittney, son-in-law Scott, grand daughter McKenna, brothers, Raymond (Chris) Brown Sr., Fred Blinn, and Kenn Shaw; her sisters, Penny Shaw, Cathy Foss, Sally Rogers, Bunni Brislane, and Robin (Rick) Jackman; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Sheldon David Shaw and Lorraine Shaw; her sisters, Wilma Shaw, Fran McNeill, and Barbara Robbins-Nisenoff; and her brothers, Sheldon Shaw Jr., Kevin Shaw.
Colleen will be missed every single day until eternity. Yet we find comfort in imagining her free at last, running, jumping, and dancing forever. Celebration of life information will be announced by the family.
And as Colleen would always say, “See you later, love ya, ciao!”
