George Munroe Shannon Obituary
It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of George Munroe Shannon, Jr., lovingly known to many as "Poppa George". He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and esteemed community member. George left this world peacefully surrounded by his loving family, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to resonate across generations.
Born in San Francisco, California, George was the eldest son among six children. He was preceded in death by his parents Catherine Shannon (ne Giovannoni) and George Munroe Shannon, Sr., his sisters Catherine Sadler and Rita Stevens, his brothers Michael and Vincent. From an early age, he was imbued with values of hard work, community service, and the importance of education.
George is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Carroll Shannon (ne Michael); their sons George Shannon, III (Lisa), Greg Shannon (Jonna), Kevin Shannon (Evana), Jim Shannon (Dawn); daughters Christine Shannon, Colleen Beardsley (Robert); and grandchildren George IV, Alexandra Lopez (Michael), David, Michael, Gabriel, Cecilia, Jacob, Molly, Joshua, Riley (Julia), Baylee, Kaycee, Logan, Lucas, Nathan, Nicholas, great-granddaughter Lila Lopez, brother John, and over 30 nieces and nephews.
A proud graduate of Bellarmine College Preparatory, George continued his education at Santa Clara University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and a Juris Doctorate. This educational path laid a firm foundation for a career marked by professionalism, integrity and being a man for others.
George was particularly proud of continuing his Bellarmine legacy through his sons and grandsons, many of whom attended and graduated from the same esteemed institution, fostering a deep family commitment to academic excellence and character development. Additionally, three of his children, George, Christine and Jim, followed in his footsteps by graduating from Santa Clara University and his grandson David, graduated from the law-school further exemplifying the family's dedication to higher education guided by Jesuits.
Beyond his professional life, George was a cornerstone of community involvement. His commitment to service was evident through his over four decades of membership in the Lion's Club and his countless hours dedicated to volunteering at local organizations, including the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad and W.E. "Bill" Mason Carousel, St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception School and the Novitiate of the Sacred Heart, where he assisted elderly Jesuit priests.
In 2016, George was honored by the U.S. Congress with a certificate of recognition for his outstanding service to the community as the Los Gatos and Monte Sereno Senior of Distinction, a testament to his profound impact on the community.
As an uncle, George extended his kindness and guidance to his nieces and nephews, embodying the role of a mentor who enriched their lives with his wisdom and humor.
Known for his wry sense of humor, George had an unmatched ability to bring laughter and lightness to any situation. His quick wit and humorous perspective were a source of joy and comfort to all around him, making every moment memorable.
George leaves behind a void that cannot be filled but also a memory that cannot be forgotten. His legacy will live on in the lives of those he touched through his acts of kindness, his commitment to his family, and his unceasing dedication to bettering his community.
A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at St. Mary's of the Immaculate Conception in Los Gatos, CA on October 26, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.
The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the following causes near to George's heart, continuing his legacy of giving and service. Sisters of the Holy Names-PO Box 907, Los Gatos, CA 95031; Bellarmine College Preparatory-960 W Heading St, San Jose, CA 95126; Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad and Bill Mason Carousel-PO Box 234, Los Gatos, CA 95031
