Ian Shriner, one of the UNCW Seahawks Superfans, passed away unexpectedly in August 2025, leaving behind his wife, Kimberly Graham, and son, Jackson.
Due to his passionate and hilarious behavior, fans made sure to sit behind him in the Seahawks game.
Ian Shriner’s love for sports began in childhood, but it was his passion for the University of North Carolina Wilmington that defined his life.
He was a fixture in the stands at UNCW games and was easily spotted in his Carolina blue, cheering with unmatched enthusiasm. His dedication to the Tar Heels went beyond fandom, and it was a way of connecting with others and sharing joy.
Those who knew Ian remember him as a man who radiated warmth. Whether welcoming strangers at a game or hosting legendary tailgates, he had a gift for making everyone feel like family.
His laughter and generosity left a lasting impression, turning casual acquaintances into lifelong friends.
Moreover, Ian gave back to his community by coaching youth sports. He believed athletics could teach discipline, teamwork, and resilience, and he poured his energy into mentoring young athletes.
His players admired him not just for his knowledge of the game, but for his unwavering support and kindness.
Undoubtedly, his untimely passing saddened the whole community, and many remembered him in their heartfelt tribute.
One of the greatest fans I’ve ever met. Truly cared about people and the hawks! Rip buddy!
Corey Dick
Ian Shriner’s Family Mourns The Tragic Loss
The UNCW community and all who knew him mourn the loss of Ian Shriner, a man whose passion, loyalty, and larger-than-life personality left an indelible mark on everyone he met.
Ian passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering Seahawks pride, heartfelt friendships, and, above all, deep love for his family.
Nobody loved UNCW more than Ian Shriner.
If anyone were a regular at Brooks Field in the early 2000s, chances are you saw him or, more likely, heard him cheering on his Hawks with unmatched enthusiasm.
He was a constant, vibrant presence whether rallying the crowd at a baseball game or holding court over the grill at Parchie’s.
Beneath the boisterous Superfan persona, Ian was a man of profound kindness. He was the first to reach out to friends who needed support, always ready with a joke, a listening ear, or a word of encouragement.
Most importantly, he was a devoted father to his son, Jackson, and a loving husband to his wife, Kimberly Graham Shriner. They often share glimpses of their personal life on social media.
Moreover, they built their family in Burke, Virginia, though Wilmington and UNCW always held a special place in Ian’s heart.
Originally from Montclair, New Jersey, Kimberly studied Environmental Science at UNCW, where her and Ian’s shared connection to the university only deepened their bond.
Together, they created a home filled with laughter, love, and plenty of Seahawks pride.
Netizens miss watching Ian fire up the crowd at Brooks Field and meeting up with him every year in Washington, D.C., for the tournament.
Similarly, they’ll miss the postgame conversations, hearing the joy in his voice when he talked about Jackson’s latest adventures or his latest ambitious scheme to catch another Seahawks game.
Ian Shriner didn’t fit into any box. He was a true one-of-a-kind—a man who wore his heart on his sleeve. His absence leaves a void that can’t be filled, but his spirit lives on in the memories of those who loved him.
Nonetheless, Ian is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their son, Jackson, along with countless friends who were lucky enough to know him.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. “Once a Seahawk, always a Seahawk.”
Rest In Peace, Ian Shriner.
