Victoria Mines
With broken hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Lawrence A. Shanahan on Sunday, October 25, 2020 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney, three days after his 75th birthday.
Larry was the son of the late Joe and Anna (LeBlanc) Shanahan, Glace Bay. The oldest of three boys, Larry was the protective big brother in the family.
Larry was gifted with many talents. His singing voice was showcased in multiple festivals and choirs in his youth. Honouring his Irish heritage lent him a love of Irish songs which he sang with perfect pitch and pride, his favourite being “Danny Boy”.
Larry met the love of his life, Joan Collins, skating at the Glace Bay Miners Forum in 1965. They were married in 1967. He was as handy as he was handsome, building his own home in Victoria Mines with constant innovations and improvements over the course of four plus decades. Having great confidence in his craftsmanship, there was truly nothing that he couldn’t fix with his adept hands. He had a great interest in woodworking, consistently churning out inventive creations of impeccable quality.
Larry took great pride in his trade as a Journeyman Electrician on various construction jobs in Nova Scotia, Ontario, Alberta and the United States. He especially enjoyed mentoring young apprentices in learning their trade and they in return held him in very high regard. For a number of years not working construction he excelled as a car salesman thanks to his magnetic personality. Exemplifying the motto of service after the sale, Larry’s efforts were indefatigable, going above and beyond by offering assistance at all hours to those in need, thereby earning lifelong loyal customers in the process.
Larry is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Joan (Collins), Victoria Mines; their three children, Joanne (Brian) Houlihan, Hammonds Plains, Melissa (Scott) Ferguson, Fall River and Jason (Froni) Shanahan, Hong Kong; grandsons, Nathan and Jack Ferguson and Ben and Rowan Houlihan; brothers, Wayne (Jo-Ann) Shanahan, Glace Bay and Gerry (Michelle) Shanahan, Halifax and their families; as well as his sister-in-law, Marie Collins, Glace Bay.
Besides his parents Larry was predeceased by in-laws, Jack and Jeanette Collins and Jackie and Gerry Collins.
Larry was first and foremost a family man and he was the most amazing papa to his four grandsons who idolized him. He was always full of fun (and mischief), planning elaborate treasure hunts, teaching them how to use his tools, unauthorized drives on the back of his Triumph and playing road hockey in the driveway. Papa would do anything for his boys!
The family would like to thank Dr. Virick for his care and concern over the years and the CBRH 4B doctors and nurses for the quality care provided these past few weeks. Also, we acknowledge the staff of Ferguson’s Pharmacy in Glace Bay for their persistent professionalism in looking after Larry’s medical needs.
Larry had a heart of gold. He loved people and was full of life, humour and quick wit. Whether in his hometown or halfway around the world, Larry could enter a roomful of strangers, none of whom spoke the same language, and win over the crowd with his ceaseless and charming charisma. He was an awesome husband, dad and papa and he will be missed and forever loved by his family.
There will be no visitation for the late Larry Shanahan. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday, October 30, 2020 at 10 a.m. in Holy Redeemer Church, Whitney Pier with Fr. Paul Murphy officiating. Interment will be in St. Alphonsus Cemetery, Victoria Mines. Covid restrictions still in place. Masks required in the Church.
Donations in memory of Larry may be made to the Holy Redeemer Building Fund or a charity of one’s choice.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
Online Condolences
Deepest condolences to Joan and family. So sorry for your loss.
From: Glen & Kay MacDonald
Joan and family I am very sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. I did not know Larry that well but the times I did meet him he always made a point to speak to me . He was always very friendly and a pleasure to talk too. My sincere condolences to you all. I will keep you in my prayers.
From: Martina MacKinnon Hardy
Wayne, Jo-Ann & family,
So very sorry for your loss. Please extend my sympathy to the rest of your family.
From: Jennifer Craig
Joan, you have many memories of Larry. He was exciting to say the least, never a dull moment keeping you on your toes, I was shocked by his passing, seems like yesterday that we spoke. Thinking of you & our Halifax Bus Trip.
From: Gail Sampson
Our condolences to all Larry’s family and friends.
From: John Shannon
Very sorry to hear of the Larry’s passing . He was a great person. We worked on the road together many times. His work ethic and knowledge was second to no one. He was always the first one to step up any time a work mate or friend needed anything … He will be missed …..
From: Rick Lawrence
So sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. Great fella !!!!!
From: David White
Joan & Family, We are so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. He was a very friendly man and Gary enjoyed working with Larry in Alberta very much. May God wrap His Loving Arms around each and everyone of you and give you the strength you need at this most difficult time in your lives. Thoughts and Prayers going your way.. RIP Larry!
From: Dee Clarkson
So sorry for your loss! My heart and prayers go out to all of you. Larry was a excellent tradesmen. I will always remember working with him. He was such a professional and took great pride in teaching the skills of the trade. I was lucky enough to have that experience with him . Rest easy Larry.
From: Brad Peck
To Larry’s Family I send my deepest sympathy. I first met Larry when I was at construction sites with my canteen truck, one day I heard this funny voice yelling ” what’s the holdup !! ” and from that day on when ever I heard that , I knew Larry was around ! The last few years when I worked at the Mall , I would hear that same saying and I knew Larry was in town . He was a lovely man and always had a smile , I am sure he will be dearly missed . To his wife Joan and his Family , hugs to you all .
From: Anna Marie Mac Nevin
Very sorry to hear of the loss of your brother, Wayne and your brother in law Jo Ann. I’m sure he will be missed. All best Carla DiGiorgio
From: Carla DiGiorgio
SO SORRY TO HEAR OF LARRY’S PASSIONG. I HAD THE HONOR OF WORKING WITH LARRY THROUGH OPUT THE YEARS AND HE WAS A TRULY EXCEPTIONAL AND HONORABLE MAN.RIP MY FRIEND.MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU
From: WILLIAM BRIAN COSTIGAN
Sincerest condolences to Joan & Family on Larry’s passing. Larry was such a great guy, larger than life, a true gentleman. He’ll be greatly missed. God Bless during this difficult time.
– Pat, Ralph & Barry Lovell & Families
From: Barry Lovell
It is with deep sadness we hear of Larry’s passing , please accept our heartfelt condolences….
From: Gordon ,Sharon Hayes
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I have many fond memories of our hockey days. God bless you all. Larry – Rest In Peace!!
From: Len Doucette
So sorry to learn of Larry’s passing.
Our condolences and prayers and fond thoughts of times when were kids growing up.
From: Brian Leslie
So sorry for your loss! My heart and prayers go out to all of you. Larry was a excellent tradesmen. I will always remember working with him. He was such a professional and took great pride in teaching the skills of the trade. I was lucky enough to have that experience with him . Rest easy Larry.
From: Brad Peck
Joan and family I am very sorry to read of Larry’s passing. I know that the last few years have been very difficult but now he is at peace. I will keep all of you in my prayers.
From: Rose White
Joan and Families: We are so sorry and shocked to hear of your great loss. I enjoyed working with Larry at the Heavy Water Plant and later selling cars with him at Johnny Wilson’s. He was a great guy and family man and will be sorely missed. Will keep you in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time in your lives.
May he RIP!
From: Matt and Kay Batherson
My condolences on the passing of Larry. My husband and I loved seeing you and your friends at the Peking every week, he was always so friendly and you could tell he was a sweet man…..so very sorry for your great loss!
From: JudyMacIntyre
I thought the world of Larry
I’ve worked with him
travelled with him
taught me a thing that or 10
forever missed by me
From: Todd Pictou
Our deepest sympathy on your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Jimmy, Carol Ann, Mark and Blair Sheppard.
From: Jimmy Sheppard
So sorry to hear this
From: Billy Morrison
I am so sorry to hear this and send you and the family my prayers and condolences. Larry and I were also skating partners at the forum and went to high school together. I did have the fortune of having him on my FB the past few years and was so happy to reconnect. Again my prayers and condolences.
From: Beverly MacDonald
Sorry to hear of Larry’s passing, we worked shift together at the heavy water plant. Larry was one of a kind, always had a great sense of humor. Fondly remember.
From: George Blois
Joanne, Jason, Melissa, My deepest condolences on the passing of your father.
From: Cheryl Irvine-Moore
To Joan and Family, I am so sorry for your loss of such a lovely man. Not just lovely but extremely comical. I worked with Larry in the mine before he left for Heavy Water Plant. Larry was always good to me getting electrical permits for me to wire houses before I received my own. It seems like yesterday I stopped at your place and had a chat, two of us on your front step. I never thought for a moment he would of been taken so soon, but he will always be watching over you and the family from above. Well Joan you and your family take care of yourselves. You will always be in my prayers.
From: Dennis Kelly and Family
Sincerest condolences to Joan & Family on Larry’s passing. Larry was such a great guy, larger than life, a true gentleman. He’ll be greatly missed. God Bless during this difficult time.
– Pat, Ralph & Barry Lovell & Families
From: Barry Lovell
Extending sincere sympathy to Joanne and the entire Shanahan family on the loss of Lawrence. May your fond memories bring you comfort at this difficult time.
From: Donald Colford & Philip Gorman
My deepest condolences to the family. I remember Larry from way back when he and my brother were the
best of friends. Rest In Peace, Larry. I deepest sympathy
From: Bunny Allen
Mike and I were so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. I have fond memories of Larry’s beautiful voice and smiling eyes. Joan, our thoughts are with you and your family , at this time. Leona Colijn (AuCoin)
From: Leona Colijn
I was so sad to hear this news. Our sincere condolences to you all from Sam and I. Larry had a great wit and sense of fun. May he be at peace and your memories be many.
Sam and Susan Moran
Sorry for your loss, Joan, RIP
Soo very sorry to hear of Larry’s death ,our deepest condolences to Joan and their family..love from Brenda n Sonny❤
Dear Joan and family –
Condolances on the passing of your husband Larry.
I am so sorry for your loss joanne. I did not know your dad but if he is anything like his daughter we will miss a great person. Thinking of you
Joan – Very sorry for the recent loss of your dear Larry.
Thinking of you at this time Joanne . Steve , my husband , worked with your father as electrician .Our deepest Condolences to all your family
Sorry to read of your loss!Aleah (Ratchford)MacNeil
So Sorry Joan and Family to learn of this void in your family. He was all that was said about him and more, he was a wonderful friend. Death robs us of those we love, we are blessed with memories, death cannot rob us of those. We are united with you and others in prayer asking God to strengthen you through this difficult time in your lives.
Deepest condolences to you Joan and the family
I remember building your home and putting up the wall when Larry came @nd told us Jason was born
It was a long time ago but I r3member
Take care
Cousin
Bill
My condolences to the family
So sorry to hear of Larry’s death we have fond memories of Larry here in Oshawa. Sending our condolences to Joan her family and all the extended family.
Richie & Ann (Oshawa)
So sorry for your loss, you are all in our thoughts and prayers
To Jason and family,
We are sad to hear Larry’s passing away. Our deepest condolences to you and your family.
With sympathy!
On behalf of Lai’s family, Hongkong
(Simon, Froni’s brother)
Kevin and I were so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. Kevin has great memories of travelling not only around Canada with him but also through the States. When we were in Port Elgin there were many evenings spent around a fire at the Maple’s Cottages listening to him singing. Larry was one of a kind in many ways. Please except our sincere condolences and may God bless you all during this time of grieving.
Kevin and I were so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. Kevin has great memories of travelling not only around Canada with him but also through the States. When we were in Port Elgin there were many evenings spent around a fire at the Maple’s Cottages listening to him singing. Larry was one of a kind in many ways. Please except our sincere condolences and may God bless you all during this time of grieving.
So sorry about Larry,s passing Condolences too all the Family
So sorry to hear of Larry ‘s passing .Your family will help you get through this terrible times.RIP Larry.
John and I were so saddened to hear about Larry’s passing. Sending so much love to Joan and family. We will always remember his smile…
Love Andree and John Gracie
My sincere condolences Joan to you and your family. I hope the support of family and friends will help you thru this difficult time.
So sorry for you and your family’s loss Joan…my thoughts are with you all. 💔
My deepest condolences to you and your family. Cherish the memories, they will help you through these difficult times. With sympathy, Diane Deveaux.
Ralph, Connor, and I are so very sorry to read about Larry’s passing. Joan and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Our deepest sympathy, God Bless.
To: Joan, Melissa, Joanne and Jason—my sincere condolences for your loss. I have enjoyed many Christmases in the company of Larry and his family over the years. You are in my thoughts and prayers. With sympathy, Elaine Fram
We were so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing.Your children and grandchildren will help you get through this terrible time.RIP Larry
My sincere condolences to all. Larry was a wonderful man and will be deeply missed by all that knew him .
Our deepest sympathy on your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Jimmy, Carol Ann, Mark and Blair Sheppard.
So very sorry for your loss Joanne and family
Sorry for your loss Joan and family, condolences, RIP Mr Larry
So sorry, Joan, to learn of Larry’s passing. I never had the opportunity to meet him, as we were worlds apart since our school days! However, what I do know is the pain of losing someone you love! My heart hurts for you and the family. Trust in God and he will continue to carry you!!! My deepest sympathy to you all!!!🙏
I am truly sorry for your lost and saddened by this news. All my condolences go to the Joanne and family.
Joan and family we are so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. He was all that you describe and we always loved seeing him. R.I.P my sweet cousin.
Willena and Eric WILSON
Very sad to find out Larry passed away…We didn’t have much contact in recent times but he was a true friend. CB has lost a unique character . Rest in peace.
Family and friends may pass on but their memories will last a life time. Our hearts and prayers are with you Joan and the rest of Larry’s family. Larry and I met early in life when we were both singing in an Operetta at Mac Donald High School in Dominion. We both ended up taking our electrical courses together At CBRVS in 1966, he was a year ahead of me. He began singing with the tradesman folk group and I was with a folk group called the Bucceneers with Allister Mac Gillivary. Both groups sang for 3 years in the different coffee houses on the go then. What great times they were. We worked together at the Glace Bay Heavy water Plant for a few months and also in Port Hawksbury. A great friend and tradesman, we will miss your stories when you would come to visit at the Dominion Hawk’s Club. Rest easy dear friend. To the world he was one person. To his family and friends he was the world.
Joan, condolences to you and your family on Larry’s passing. Larry and I had some interesting times together on shift at the Heavy Water Plant.
My deepest condolences to the Shanahan family on the loss of a very special spirit. I had the pleasure of working with Larry many years ago and will never forget his infectious personality, kindness and, oh yes, the laughter and stories. Rest in peace, my friend.
To the Shanahan Family,
Please accept my condolences on Larry’s passing. Always a friendly kind and helpful to everyone.
God Bless,
Wayne McKinnon
Dear Joanne and Family:
Sending my sincere condolences on the passing of your Dad. I lost my dad a few months ago so I know the tremendous pain and loss you are feeling. All the great memories and the strong support system of family and friends will help you get through the dark days ahead. I didn’t realize you grew up in Cape Breton- I grew up down the road in Sydney- Small world. Love and prayers at this difficult time. Sincerely,
Jeanine Clague
I am sorry for your loss. Can’t imagine how hard it feels.
Joan and family. Very sorry to hear of your great loss. Larry and I lost contact many years ago when we went our separate ways after our school days were over. It’s been a long time but I still have vivid memories of growing up together with our little gang around King Edward and Bay streets in Glacé Bay. I remember the hijinks, the scrapes and bruises, the near misses (a guardian angel watching over us) and all the happy fun times .I am sure if Larry was reading this he would be smiling ,as I am now. Rest In Peace ole buddy.
I just read this notice. Sad to hear that he is gone .
The many tributes to Larry on this page are a true measure of the man he was.
One in particular, from Moodie Allan, caught my eye……..I was part of the same gang Moodie mentioned. Roy, Larry, Jimmy, Donnie, me and Moodie.
Larry was larger than life even way back then with a well honed sense of humour .
I can still remember, in the ninth grade , when he used the word “thusly” when answering a question and he was corrected by “Bloody” Mary, our teacher.
The teacher said that the word did not exist, Larry replied , (and insisted )that ,oh yes, it did!!
The back and forth continued , ending when she apologized to him in front of the class after looking the word up in a dictionary.
A very funny guy he was, in addition to being a great friend .
May he rest in peace.
Joan,JoAnne,Melissa,Jason.
Thinking of you as you lay your dear Larry to rest.Lean on one another for support,and cherish your Happy memories .
Sorry for your loss, condolences to Joan and family.
Joan and family, very saddened to hear of Larry’s passing, he was a great friend and we were privileged to have him in our life, will miss him on facebook, fond memories, God Bless, xoxo
Condolences to the Shanahan Family:
It is with sadness to read of Larry ‘s passing.From reading his obituary he was a great man who will be deeply missed.
Rest In Peace Larry,
Raylene ( Cochrane) Mac Eachern
Cgy
Formerly of Beacon St
Dear Joan and family,
I am so sorry To hear of Larry’s passing.
Extending sincere sympathy to Joanne and the rest of the Shanahan family on the loss of Larry. May your fond memories bring you all comfort during this difficult time.
Dear Joan and family: We were so sorry to hear today that Larry had passed. Sending our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. We hope that all the special memories you made with him over the years will help ease your pain and get you through this tremendous loss. Jeffrey has lots of fond memories of working with Larry that he will always treasure. Take Care and God Bless.