In Memoriam of Shawn Mathew Wilhelm

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV

Born in Norwich, Connecticut, Shawn Mathew Wilhelm, 40, left his earthly home to be with His Lord and Savior in Heaven on October 25, 2022.

An alumnus of Jacksonville University in Florida, he went on to receive a Naval commission as a Nurse Corps Officer in 2010. Achieving the final rank of Lieutenant Commander, he served our country for the last 12 years of his life with pride and compassion.

Shawn didn’t know a stranger and touched the lives of many people with his gregarious personality and incredible sense of humor. He loved his family, friends, traveling the world, watching his boys play sports, and (oh yes), that red Jeep.

Naturally, this unexpected tragedy has left his family and friends grieving with many unanswered questions. As a Navy Veteran and someone who lost her own husband (also a father and Navy veteran) to suicide, I challenge us all to use this time of grieving to cultivate the legacy of the loving-kindness Shawn was known for.

I am hoping we can unite and raise funds for any of the many immediate expenses the Wilhelm family will incur over the weeks and months to come. Any additional donations will go towards a college fund for Shawn and Crystal’s boys, Levi (16) and Ezra (10). We hope to also partner with national organizations like NAMI (the National Alliance for Mental Illness) and SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education) who work to bring suicide prevention and mental health resources into our communities.

While no details on memorial or funeral arrangements are available at this time, Shawn’s interment will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. The family will provide an update as details become available.

You can also make a direct donation to:

Crystal Wilhelm

Navy Federal Credit Union

256074974

If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide please text TALK to 741741 to reach someone at the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. In a crisis? You may also call or text 988.