Heartbroken

We are heartbroken to announce the sudden passing of our beloved Yeti in residence, Shaun L. Ferris, my partner of 11 years and guardian of our family. Shaun was an avid reader and writer who didn’t get his words onto paper as often as he should have. He was my first line of defense – always eager to read, edit, and discuss my scribbles and encourage me to put them out into the world. Shaun was always more proud of me than I ever was of myself.

Although Shaun would proudly claim that he was an “indoor cat” and did not care for crowds nor people, he not so begrudgingly took up the mantle of “Wizardly Assistant to the Book Witch” and helped to select and dispense some reading joy. Although he was definitely much more in tune with being a druid, he played the wizard role quite well.

In his honor, play some Tunnels & Trolls, read some Dune, watch a sad slice of life anime, pet a cat, or just relax with a cup of non-Starby coffee.

Official Obituary: https://www.mccriskinfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Shaun-L-Ferris?obId=49139923

Shaun L. Ferris, beloved Yeti, passed away peacefully at his home in Cliffwood Beach, NJ on July 25th 2026 at the age of 53. He was born in MA, raised in AZ, and did some wandering in WA before being whisked away to NJ.

Lover of Commodore 64s, enthusiast of cats, creator of Darnoth Airsa and holder of the beardiest of beards.

He was a son, brother, father, partner, uncle, best friend and all those important things. Moreover, he was a writer, reader, gamer, bassist, cook, and if pressed, you might have known him as a Lance Corporal in the USMC.

Shaun was an all-around geek and lover of all things nerdtastic. Listening to Jethro Tull while making carnitas for game night with an intense session of Cosmic Encounters was an ideal time for him. Well, maybe second ideal next to curling up in his comfy chair with some fresh ground coffee to watch slice of life anime with his family.

He would happily engage in deep conversations about Tunnels and Trolls, Dune, coding, or just life, the universe and everything. Or utter a subtle “mao” from across the cheese aisle of the grocery store.

While Shaun proclaimed that he disliked people and wasn’t likable, he was low-key out-going and often brightened a stranger’s day. Not one to remain silent, he always stood up for the people who couldn’t for themselves and never expected anything in return.

He is survived by his valiant son Erik and Shaun’s elder siblings and spouses: Wendy & Brian, Gary & Pamela, Glenn & Wendy. He rudely leaves behind his lorelei Crystiannia, brother in music Jacob, his protégé Kid Chaos aka Tristan, and countless friends that meant more to him than he would ever admit. Also, his red stand mixer, Scarlet. He is predeceased by his parents, Larry and Patricia, and his Nox Kitty.

Cremation Services were held privately.