John Adam Shankel

Born June 1, 1945, in Canton, Ohio, to Wray Adam Shankel and Alice Grace (Franklin) Shankel, John served as a first lieutenant and artillery officer in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, and was an advisor to the South Vietnamese. His service earned him several decorations including the Bronze Star.

On October 31, 1970, he married Barbara K. Varn. Together they built a life and family almost 57 years.

John spent much of his career at Babcock & Wilcox, starting in quality control and rising to general manager.

John lived with enthusiasm, always saw the good in people, and loved a good joke, especially his own. An avid sailor, camper, reader and gardener, he was happiest on the water or in his garden, and his curiosity took him around the world. His faith was deeply personal and steadfast throughout his life. He had great pride in his heritage which led him to membership in the Sons of the American Revolution.

For all he accomplished and experienced, family was the center of his life. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and had the special joy of becoming a great-grandfather. As he so often said, “life is good.”

John is survived by his wife, Barbara K. (Varn) Shankel; his children, Shaun Adrian Shankel (Erin), Andrea Nicole Lausch (Steve), Adam Matthew Shankel (Christina), and Stephany Ann Cardinali (Tony); his grandchildren, Tyler Staley, Evangeline Shankel, Zavier Shankel, Stella Shankel, Zoe Shankel, Matthew Lausch, Noah Lausch, Charlotte Cardinali, Alice Shankel, Lily Shankel, and Penelope Cardinali and his great-grandson, Baker Staley.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Jean Slemboski, Daniel Shankel, and David Shankel.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, October 27, at Cornerstone Lutheran Church, 4850 E. Main St., Carmel (please enter through Door 3), with a memorial service that will be live streamed following at 6 p.m. Burial with military honors will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, October 28, at Marion National Cemetery in Marion, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Indy Honor Flight (indyhonorflight.org or PO Box 10, Plainfield, IN 46168) or the American Legion.