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Michael Shanahan Obituary
He was the loving and devoted husband of Diane M. (Di Cicco) Shanahan, to whom he was married for 30 years.
He was born in Lowell on Aug. 8, 1948, the son of Florence (Hysette) Shanahan of Dracut and the late Albert B. Shanahan. He was educated in Dracut, and graduated magna cum laude from UMass Lowell in 1985 with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. He received a master's degree in public administration from Harvard University, graduating magna cum Laude in 1994.
At the age of 17, Mr. Shanahan enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving in the Vietnam War for four years. He was honorably discharged as a sergeant in 1970. He received many awards, including the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one star, Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, Marksmanship Rifle Badge and Navy Achievement Medal with combat "V".
He began his career with the Massachusetts State Police in 1971 in the 55 RTT class. He was well known for his high individual academic achievements as a recruit.
He was a highly decorated and respected individual who rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel in the State Police, family members recalled.
Mr. Shanahan was in charge of all field operations, which consisted of 1,500 uniform personnel, seven headquarters and 38 stations throughout the state. Mr. Shanahan retired in 1996. Two years later, he was employed as a senior corporate security manager and senior investigator with Bank of America.
Lt. Col. Shanahan was a member and supporter of the Retired Trooper Association. He was also a member of St. Augustine Parish in Andover.
Besides his wife and mother, his survivors include two children, Michael and Christina, both of Andover; a sister, Ann and Vincent Del Fuoco of Chelmsford; his wife's parents, Charles and Rose Di Cicco of Winthrop; two sisters-in-law and their husbands, Margaret and George Arrigo of East Boston, and Anita and Michael Bolonese of Winthrop; and several nieces, great-nieces and great-nephews.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Shanahan
5 Entries
Colleen McManus
July 27, 2006
To Mike and family,
I was extremely sorry to hear about your loss. I planned to attend the memorial service but unfortunately could not get a babysitter that day.
Please keep all of your loving memories close and talk about them often as you will find they help sustain you during this time. Mike - if you ever want to talk, I'm here.
Thinking of you.
Jacques Andersen
July 16, 2006
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
Debbie ST.Amand
July 12, 2006
Diane,and Family
I didn't know Mike well but from what I knew and heard he was a very special person and now he is your very special angel. he went with courage and dignity and hopefully that will be enough to help you and the children threw this very difficult and hurtfull time. my love and prayers are with the three of you
Debbie
Roberta Hayes
July 6, 2006
Dear Shanahan and extended Family Members:
Lt. Colonel "Mike" Shanahan was one of the finest gentlemen I've had the pleasure to meet. I also had the distinct honor and privilege to have worked by his side at the MSP Headquarters. He had a keen sense of humor, a dedicated commitment to his job and a deep love of his family and friends. My husband and I would like to extend our deepest condolences to you on your loss. Mike will be missed by many but greatly remembered by all for his strength and love of life.
Roberta Hayes & Jim McClellan
Sandra Cecconi
July 6, 2006
Dear Shanahan Family,
The Cecconi Family want to express our sincere condolences. Your family has alot to proud of. Mike was a gentle giant and a man of extreme integrity and grace. In your time of sadness just remember the strength that Mike had shown through his illness and my hope is that you also will gain such strength.
Sincerely,
Rich, Sandy, Nicole & Matt Cecconi
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