Shands Cean Franklin Obituary – St. Paul, MN—The passing of Cean Franklin Shands, a beloved attorney and dedicated supporter of KFAN sports radio, has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who knew him.
Shands, who died on January 5, 2025, was not only known for his legal expertise but also for his unwavering loyalty, genuine kindness, and deep connection to his community.
Cean Shands was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, before moving to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he would build his career as a respected attorney at law.
Known for his sharp intellect and compassionate approach, Shands practiced law for many years, providing legal counsel to clients with dedication and professionalism. His legal expertise earned him the respect of his peers, but it was his personal qualities that truly set him apart.
Those who knew Cean best described him as a man of great character—genuine, friendly, loving, and loyal to a fault. His integrity shone through in every aspect of his life. A friend to both kings and peasants alike, Cean never distinguished between people based on status or wealth. His ability to treat everyone with kindness and respect made him an admired figure, not only in his professional circles but also within his community.
Outside of his legal work, Cean had an enduring passion for sports radio, particularly KFAN, one of Minnesota’s premier sports stations. His relationship with KFAN began as a devoted listener, but over the years, Cean’s involvement grew as he became a loyal participant in station promotions and on-air calls. He was known for his witty, irreverent phone calls, which contributed to the station’s vibrant, interactive atmosphere.
Cean’s love for radio and sports made him a fixture at KFAN events, where he was often seen supporting his favorite shows and personalities. His humor and enthusiasm brought joy to those around him, and his presence at station promotions was always welcome. Fans and staff alike came to appreciate Cean not just for his humor, but for the sincerity he brought to every interaction.
Yet, it wasn’t until later in life that many people truly understood the depth of Cean Shands’ character. Beneath the persona of a passionate sports radio fan was a man of extraordinary generosity, someone who valued deep, meaningful connections and was always willing to help others in need.