In memory of

Thomas James Shanahan

July 16, 1948 - May 1, 2023

Surrounded by the love of his family, Thomas “Tom” Shanahan passed away peacefully on May 1st, 2023 at the age of 74. He was born in Montreal, Quebec, to the late James and Flora Shanahan. Tom will be lovingly remembered by the love of his life Michèle, his wife of 50 beautiful years. He will be fondly remembered as a proud and loving father to his son, Alex (Liz), and daughter, Claire, and as Grandpa to Danielle and Jacob. Tom was cherished by his sister, Theresa (Doug), and was a loving uncle to Christina and Laura.

Tom dedicated 35 years of his life to teaching and later worked part-time as a school bus driver for a decade. He was an avid reader, one might describe as a bookworm and a patriotic Canadian who loved his country dearly. He often referred to Pickering as an unknown paradise and loved taking walks by the lake. Tom appreciated nature and had a particular fondness for animals.

If you wish to make a donation in honor of Tom, memorial contributions may be made to Durham Humane Society.

Guestbook

(5 of 25)

Martin and Naomi Petric (Alex’s in-laws and friends of Tom and Michelle)

Entered May 6, 2023 from Vancouver

We have so many cherished memories of invites to Tom and Michelle’s for holiday celebrations. Who could forget Tom’s flaming brandy mincemeat and his homemade apple blossoms and hours of interesting chats. We will miss you, Tom!

Danielle and Harvey Shanefield (Best friends of his sister and brother-in-law Theresa and Doug Norris)

Entered May 6, 2023 from Ottawa

Our sincere condolences on the sudden passing of Tommy. May the wonderful memories you shared sustain you during this difficult time. He will be remembered by my husband and I as a caring and kind hearted human being.
Danielle and Harvey

Nicolas Sève (Neveu)

Entered May 6, 2023 from Montreal

Cher Oncle Tom,

Nous pensons affectueusement à toi avec Léana et Maya.
Tu as été un oncle très aimant, gentil, doux et plein de joie à chaque fois que nous avons eu le plaisir de te voir.
Tu es a présent dans le ciel mais ta bienveillance et ton amour restera à jamais dans nos coeurs.

Nous tembrassoms fort tous les trois.
Nous envoyons toutes nos pensées à Tata Mimi, cousin.e Alex, Liz et Claire ainsi qu'à Jacob et Danielle pour traverser cette période de peine et de perte.

Tu nous manques à tous...

Leonard Pacelli (Long time friend)

Entered May 6, 2023 from Montreal, Quebec, Canada

A personal memory song was sent via email and a donation was sent to the HSDR in memory of Tom.

Marisa Portolese (Friend)

Entered May 6, 2023 from Montreal

I send my heartfelt condolences to Michèle, Theresa and the Shanahan family.
I had the honour and privilege of meeting, photographing and interviewing Tom regarding his days in the Goose Village, Montreal. Tom was such an intelligent, kind and sweet person with a golden soul. May he rest in peace.