Traverse City, Michigan
Died December 30, 2005
TRAVERSE CITY - John Patrick Shea lost his long battle with cancer on Dec. 30, 2005. His unwavering fight and will to live were true lessons in determination and perseverance.
Pat was born in Detroit on May 5, 1932, to the late John Joseph and Anna Marie Shea.
He is survived by his sister, Mary Ellen Shea.
He graduated from Michigan State University and moved to Traverse City to pursue a career in finance. His love of hunting and fishing also drew him to the area. Pat retired from a local bank following forty years of dedicated service.
Pat married Patty Jean Woodard, who was his wife of 53 years. They created a family which includes their three children, Michael (Retha) Shea, Bonnie Decker and Karen Shea. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Bryan, Melissa and Megan; six great-grandchildren, Justin, Olivia, Lauren, Alison, Ella and his namesake, Jeremy John Patrick, the "dancin' machine." Pat also leaves behind Louie and Murphy, his faithful dachshund companions.
Pat was an avid outdoorsman with a passion for fishing and hunting. In his younger days he could often be found on the banks of the Boardman dressed in his suit coat and tie, fishing away his lunch hour.
He was also part of a fun-loving group of guys who called the "shack" their home every deer season for the past 45 years. Pat wasn't allowed to enter deer camp without his beloved accordion. Many deep, ever-lasting friendships were formed to the beat of one of Pat's polkas.
His love of travel was well known as he often shared his extensive photo albums and videos with everyone he encountered. Pat instilled his passion for mountain adventures in his children, who also live to experience wildlife and breathtaking scenery. He took pride in raising children who can't wait to discover what's around the next bend.
John Patrick's Irish eyes are no longer smiling, but his gentle soul will always be loved, remembered fondly, and greatly missed by his friends and family.
A memorial service for John Patrick Shea will be held at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2006. The ceremony will begin at 11 a.m., with visitation scheduled one hour prior to the service.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Father Fred Foundation or the Cherryland Humane Society.
"May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back."
This obituary was originally published in the Record-Eagle.
To the Family of Pat Shea,
You won't know me but I moved to Elk Rapids in 1975 as a salesman for the Burroughs Corporation. I met Pat through that relationship and his position as DP Manager for the old Traverse City State Bank. I periodically would see hime around TC and his demeanor never changed. His cup was always 1/2 FULL.
Cherish the Memories.
Larry Quade
Larry Quade
February 04, 2006 | Elk Rapids, MI
To the family of Pat Shea,
My name is Becky Lawrence and you probably do not know me but my Dad Ed Krause and my Aunt Loyeda Krause worked with Pat for many years. They spoke very highly of Pat and valued his friendship and knowledge. If they were alive today themselves they would have you in their prayers. So I will say one for them for Pat. Take care and rest assured Pat had many friends
Rebecca Lawrence
Rebecca Lawrence
January 30, 2006 | Buckley, MI
I am sorry for the loss of Pat Shea... always a calm, kindly human being. I enjoyed working with him.
Virginia Watson
County Clerk, retired
Virginia Watson
January 29, 2006 | Sun City Center, FL
