In 2016, both Les and Shannon found themselves single and decided to explore the world of online dating through Christian Mingle. They initially connected online and met for their first official date about two weeks later. After a long first date (where he even attempted to ‘leave’ her at HEB), they agreed that a second date was definitely in order. Ten months later, they tied the knot.

Now approaching eight years of marriage, the couple moved into Twin Rivers in 2019. Getting to know their neighbors has been one of their favorite aspects of life in Twin Rivers. Shannon has been a resident of the Waco area since 1987, while Les moved there in 2017. Les spent much of his childhood in Oklahoma, whereas Shannon proudly identifies as a Texan. 

Les has a son and daughter-in-law who have four children, as well as a daughter and son-in-law with two kids. Shannon has two married sons; one has three children and the other recently welcomed a baby boy, just eight months old. Altogether, they are proud grandparents to ten grandchildren! Being a grandparent is one of their greatest joys in life.

Les has a passion for acting and has been involved in film for thirteen years, collaborating with independent directors throughout Texas and beyond. You can find his work listed on IMDB.com showcasing many films he has appeared in. He's a kind man but he often portrays villains, even growing his hair and beard for various roles. He has also appeared in commercials and music videos. His current and biggest project is playing Sherlock Holmes in a film that debuted in San Antonio and other cities in February. Be sure to check out “Sherlock Holmes Mare of the Night” and contact Les or Shannon for viewing opportunities.

Residents of Twin Rivers have enjoyed seeing Les portray The Grinch at the annual Christmas event, a role he has relished alongside Shannon, who played Cindy Lou this past year. While he no longer participates in live theater, Les began his acting journey in that medium.

Shannon works as an RN with Baylor Scott and White Quality Alliance in Case Management, benefiting from the flexibility of working from home. Her first nurse manager after becoming a nurse in 1987 was Debbie Ucci, another Twin Rivers resident, who served as an excellent role model. Shannon is grateful for the valuable experience she gained under Debbie’s guidance.

An outdoor enthusiast, Shannon took up running in her early 40s. Initially part of a local running club, the Waco Striders, she now enjoys running mostly alone or with her buddy, Melanie Illich, and her dog, Nova. Shannon has completed multiple full and half marathons, along with several triathlons, focusing on distance rather than speed and maintaining a run/walk pattern. For the last five years, she has limited her running to half marathons or shorter. In 2024, she was selected to join Team Waco and trained for Ironman 70.3 Waco, which took place this past October. Being part of Team Waco was a deeply inspiring and fulfilling experience for her, as she participated in a relay team, swimming 1.2 miles in the Brazos, followed by her teammate Chris Wills completing a 56-mile bike ride, and concluding with Shannon running 13.1 miles. You might catch Shannon running around Twin Rivers at various times, enjoying the beautiful views, wildlife, and the community.

Les and Shannon share a passion for travel, whether it's a weekend getaway within Texas or an extensive trip to places like Italy, Israel, or Ireland; they always have a wonderful time together! Shannon enjoys planning their trips and itineraries, while Les works part-time with Expedia Cruises. They have embarked on numerous cruises and are planning a land and cruise tour of Alaska later this year. If you're interested in cruising or vacation planning, don't hesitate to reach out to Les for assistance with ideas and plans.

The couple are actively involved in their church, Harris Creek, where they serve on the Second-Half (50+ Ministry) steering committee and also participate in their Life Groups which have fostered strong friendships and relationships. They often reflect on how, when they first married, their biggest prayer was to find a community of friends and mentors their age. In God’s timing, this prayer has been answered, and they feel abundantly blessed.

Les and Shannon have a genuine desire to help others. They support Isaiah House of McLennan County, an organization they believe is worthy of support, and encourage others to consider it for their annual giving. They also see Bitty & Beau’s Coffee in downtown Waco as a blessing; it’s a place where one can enter as a stranger and leave with a full heart and new friends. Owners Mark and Amy Sauer are also residents of Twin Rivers. Be sure to visit Bitty & Beau’s soon!