John David Shannahan

Raised in Branson, Mo, Dave graduated from Drury University where he had been an outstanding multi-sport athlete. He later received his Masters in Physics from SIU-E. Following graduation, he began a remarkable career in education and coaching that left a lasting impact throughout the Midwest. Dave was a dedicated teacher for over 40 years, including 28 years teaching Physics at Belleville Area College. His coaching career spanned various institutions, including Johnston City, Sparta, Belleville West, Belleville Area College, O’Fallon, and Waterloo. Throughout his remarkable basketball coaching career, he achieved an impressive record of over 500 wins and was honored with election into multiple Sports Hall of Fames in both Illinois and Missouri.

Dave was an accomplished golfer for most of his adult life. He coached Belleville West’s Golf Team to three State Championships and one second place finish. Additionally, he recorded nine hole-in-ones and twice won the St Louis District Father-Son Golf championship with his son, Larry.

Dave is survived by his loving wife Sandra of 45 years; his children Tim Shannahan (Mary), Beth Rejman (Court), and Angela Kammann (Phil); and his stepchildren Tom Feldker (Cindy), Susan O’Malley (John Barenkamp), and Karin Feldker.

He was a proud grandfather to Brian Shannahan, Erik Shannahan (Katy), Connor Rejman, Dillon Rejman, Casey Shannahan, Megan Shannahan Reschenberg (Jack), Eliza Kammann, and Katie Kammann. He was also blessed with step grandchildren Mark Feldker, Stephanie English (Brad), Emily Feldker, and Sally O’Malley (Nick DeAngelo).

Dave’s joy multiplied again with his great grandchildren: Blake, Kaia, Greyson, Blaise, and Noah Shannahan; and Lennon, Cash, and Elton English. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his oldest son Larry Shannahan, his parents John and Virginia, brother Jim, and sister Anne Marine, Brother-in-laws Gordon Marine and John Arndt and his son-in law Michael O’Malley. He is survived by his sister Sharon Arndt and his brother Phil (Jo), who remain part of the strong family foundation that shaped him and that he, in turn, strengthened throughout his life.

Dave will be remembered not only for his honors and accomplishments, but for the integrity, dedication and passion he brought to everything he did in life. His legacy lives on in the many lives he shaped over a lifetime devoted to family, education and athletics.

May he rest in the peace of God’s eternal embrace.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First United Presbyterian Church, Belleville, Illinois or a charity of your choice.

Memorial visitation will be from 9:00am - 11:00am on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at First United Presbyterian Church, 1303 Royal Heights Road, Belleville, Illinois. A service to follow at 11:00am, Pastor Rob Dyer presiding. Services provided by Lakeview Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights, Illinois.