Patrick Maurice Shannon

Patrick Maurice Shannon, Lawrence Kansas passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 24, 2026 in Ottawa, Kansas.

Patrick was born December 21, 1931 to Wallace and Virginia (Patin) Shannon in Long Beach, California. He was the second of four boys. He grew up during the Great Depression and World War II. As soon as he graduated high school, Pat joined the Coast Guard at the young age of 17. After serving in the US Coast Guard, Patrick worked for a major oil company (ARCO)for 33 years bringing him rich experiences traveling in Asia, the Middle East and all across America. He was able to retire early with the title International Training Manager.

He attended East Carolina University, Oklahoma University, and UCLA. He was a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Scholastic society.

Patrick lived a multi-faceted life studying electronics, gemology and art. He was a photographer and produced 5 bronze sculptures, but found his joy in writing. He had seven novels published and was awarded several literary awards and medals.

Patrick had a huge heart and wonderful sense of humor and said laughter kept him young through his 94 years. He was devoted to helping animals and seemed to have a special connection with them.

Patrick married Elizabeth (Dougherty) Shannon on January 31, 1952. They had three children: Michael Shannon of Rogers, Arkansas, Katie Smith of Ottawa, Kansas and Thomas Shannon of California. Pat and Elizabeth divorced after 23 years of marriage. In 1976, Pat married Genevieve. They were entering their 40th year of marriage when Genny passed away in 2016.

Pat moved to Ottawa, Kansas in 2016 and eventually moved to Lawrence, Kansas in 2018.

Patrick is survived by two brothers, Jeffrey Shannon, Houston, Texas, Brian (Janet) Shannon, San Clemente, California, his three children, grandchildren Anne Brand and Louis Shannon, Bella Vista, Arkansas and many nieces, nephews and friends,

Patrick was preceded in death by his parents, older brother Richard Shannon, and grandson, (Deputy) Samuel Smith of Ottawa, Kansas.

Everyone who knew Patrick was happy to be in his life and used the words sweet, funny and a gentleman to describe him. And though his light will continue to shine through his family, friends and books, he will be missed every day. He definitely left the world a better place.

As per Patrick's wishes, his ashes will be buried at sea in California.

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