George Michael Shannon

George Michael Patrick Shannon, First Sergeant, U.S. Army retired, was born to eternal life on Friday, January 12, 2018. George was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Melvin J. Shannon and Sarah H. Shannon (nee Altenbach) on June 10, 1932. Too young to serve the United States during World War II, George often played soldier in the Seminary Woods near his childhood home of Bayview on Milwaukee’s south side. When he was old enough to enlist in the U.S. Army, George served with the 1st Cavalry Division in Korea where he earned the Purple Heart, National Defense Ribbon, U.N. Ribbon and the Combat Infantry Badge. George again served with the 1st Cavalry Division in Viet Nam where he distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action earning the Silver Star, a second Purple Heart, second award of the Combat Infantry Badge and was offered a battlefield commission. George earned many other awards during his rewarding and productive 26 year military career. After retiring from the Army, George worked for the Allen Bradley Company until his retirement there. Throughout his life George was regarded by many as an extraordinary leader and teacher. George enjoyed the outdoors and all God’s creatures. He created a beautiful park-like yard where he enjoyed feeding and listening to song birds as he entertained family and friends.
Previously married to Gerlinde Hruzek (nee Hauser), George was the beloved father of Roswitha (Tom) Ohlin, Michael (Melissa) Shannon, Eileen (Gary) Kilsdonk, and Patricia (Todd) Luebke. George was the loving Grandfather of Jessica (Kim) Aijala, Jacob (Abella) Fraemohs, Matthew Fraemohs, Amanda (Jacob) Slawson, Mark Shannon and Molly Shannon, and Great Grandfather of Breanna, Sawyer and Derek. George was preceded in death by his dear friend, Patricia Klusman, his parents, brothers Gerald and Baby Boy Shannon, and leaves behind sisters Margaret Shannon and Reverend Ruth Ann (Eugene) Krymkowski. George is also survived by nieces, nephews and many friends.
Memorial visitation will be held at ST. GREGORY THE GREAT PARISH, 63rd & Oklahoma Ave, from 9-10:45 am with Mass of Christian Burial at 11am. Interment at Woodlawn Cemetery.
George touched many lives during his 85 years and will be greatly missed.