Paul J. Shanahan, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2024, in Maquoketa, Iowa, at the age of 84. Born on March 15, 1939, in Bernard, Iowa, Paul was the son of Johnny and Isabell (Lammer) Shanahan.

On May 6, 1961, Paul married the love of his life, Arlene McLaughlin, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Otter Creek, Iowa. Together, they welcomed five sons into the world, creating a family legacy filled with love, laughter, and enduring memories. Paul’s dedication to his family was evident in every aspect of his life, and he took great pride in the accomplishments of his children and their families.

Paul’s work ethic was as strong as his commitment to his family. He began his career farming in Otter Creek until 1977, after which he joined General Thermal in Maquoketa, where he worked diligently for ten years until its closure. In 1983, he brought his talents to T & J Manufacturing in Maquoketa, where he remained until his well-deserved retirement in 2004. His colleagues remember him as a reliable and hardworking individual who always lent a helping hand.

A man of faith, Paul was a devoted member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa and an active participant in the Maquoketa Fr. Loosbrock Knights of Columbus Council #8269. His involvement in the church and council was a testament to his belief in community service and his desire to make a positive impact on those around him.

Paul’s interests were as varied as they were joyful. He was a former member of the Maquoketa Country Club, where he enjoyed golfing and the camaraderie of fellow members. His passion for collecting toy tractors was more than a hobby; it was a reflection of his love for agriculture and the simple pleasures of life. Paul could often be found riding his John Deere lawn mower, taking pride in his perfectly cut grass, and he cherished the moments spent visiting with family, sharing stories, and creating new memories.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Arlene Shanahan of Maquoketa, IA; sons, Ric (Colter Hoggan) Shanahan of Dallas, TX, Randy (Kathryn) Shanahan of Maquoketa, IA, Ron (Christina) Shanahan of Delmar, IA, Jim Shanahan of Maquoketa, IA, and Joseph (Toby) Potter-Shanahan of Fountain Hills, AZ; nine grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; siblings, Mary (George) Felderman of LaMotte, IA, Charles (Mary) Shanahan of Bernard, IA, and Eulaine (Jimmy) Hutchcroft of Bellevue, IA; and sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Ginny Heim of Basehor, KS, Kay Shanahan of Dubuque, IA, and Bob Timmerman of Dickeyville, WI.  He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Patrick Shanahan, Loras Shanahan and Ann Timmerman, sisters-in-law Carol Capesius, Julie Shanahan, and Doris McLaughlin, and brothers-in-law Arthur Capesius and Jerry Heim.

A funeral mass celebrating his life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Monday, January 8, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 9:30 A.M to 11:15 A.M. at the church.  Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.