It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, William James Shanahan “Jim” on Wednesday, June 26, 2019 at the Bella Senior Care Residence in Niagara Falls (Chippawa). Jim was born in Saskatchewan on September 23, 1917, but spent most of his 101 years in Niagara Falls where he lived independently in his home until earlier this year.
Predeceased by his loving wife Maisie; son James (Violet) of Regina, Saskatchewan; and 3 sisters: Murza, Grace and Marie. Remembered, with love, by daughter Sandra (the late John) Haddad of San Francisco, California, son Richard (Barbara) of Niagara Falls, son Robert (Shirley) of Lumby BC, and daughter Rae Ann (the late Chris) Cairns of Chippawa. Loved by grandchildren; Tom (Suma) Haddad, Alex (Evin) Haddad, Tracy (Rick) Amaral, Wendy Shanahan, Becky (Levi) Cliché, James (Chantal) Cairns, Jonathan Cairns, Jessica (James) Potter, and 11 great-grandchildren.
Dad worked a variety of jobs until he joined the RCAF in WW2 as a mechanic. After the war, Dad was a milkman with horse and cart. He had so many stories about those days. Then he joined the OPP and later the Niagara Regional Police where he retired after 30 years of service as a Staff Sergeant. He received many honours for his service in the department and the community. Dad was extremely proud of a bit part in the film “Niagara” with Marilyn Monroe and a CBC documentary called “One Man’s Niagara”. Family and friends were Dad and Mom’s highest priority. They would drop everything to have a visit with anyone that stopped by. The memories of family camping trips and so many special times will be with us forever.
As per Dad’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family funeral will take place at a later date.
If so desired, donations can be made to the Walker Cancer Centre in St. Catharines. We cannot express enough gratitude to our amazing team of Doctors there.
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