Michael Shanahan

Tribute

Michael William Shanahan lived a life defined by service, curiosity, and a deep belief in the dignity and potential of others. Born on October 4, 1943 in Durham, North Carolina to William O and Hellen K Shanahan. He was the eldest of two siblings, survived by his brother Christopher, and preceded in death by his sister, who passed away from ovarian cancer in her mid-70s.Michael was raised and schooled in the Catholic faith although-never followed the tradition and grew up in Eugene, Oregon where he was surrounded by counter cultural beliefs. For a time in his twenties he referred to himself as a “stone cold hippy” and was deeply interested in Eastern thought, meditation, yoga, and altered states. Nevertheless, he graduated from South Eugene High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Oregon. Guided by a strong sense of social responsibility and global awareness as well as an adversity to serve in the Vietnam War he later joined the Peace Corps, serving in Borneo, Malaysia. There, he worked to improve agricultural systems and foster cooperation and understanding between communities—an experience that shaped the rest of his life. Upon returning to the United States, Michael continued his lifelong commitment to service, particularly to young people and those who were underserved or marginalized. In Oregon, he worked with Lane County Children’s Services and supervised a youth-led project that resulted in the publication of Century Farms of Lane County, a book compiled and written by local youth under his guidance. He later extended this work in Washington State, focusing on employment, training, and advocacy for disenfranchised individuals. Michael’s dedication and leadership led to his appointment as Director of the Department of Employment and Training in Yakima County, Washington. In this role, he successfully secured grants that expanded job training and employment opportunities, including initiatives supporting tribal communities and other underserved populations. His work reflected his deep belief that access to opportunity could change lives. Michael retired at the age of 52 and spent nearly a decade doing what he loved most—fishing and hunting, often in Baja Mexico—before settling in Joshua Tree, California. He spent the final 17 years of his life there, drawn to the desert’s quiet beauty, wide skies, and sense of solitude. Here he also found a connection to the spiritual side where he felt comfortable practicing his own mystical beliefs, antiquing and spending time with his daughter and friends.

Friends & Family

Michael was preceded in death by his son, M Cedrik Shanahan, lived to the age of 44 left behind his daughter Ariana , who now has a son of her own. Michael is survived by his daughter, Jordan Vix, who is married to Dale.