Michael E. Shannon

Michael passed away Friday April 29, 2016 while a resident at Peak Resources in Nags Head. Prior to moving to Peak Michael made his home with his mother and then his sister Margaret. He was born in Poughkeepsie, NY on May 22, 1951.

He was predeceased by his parents, George and Alice Shannon. He leaves behind his sisters and brothers in law Kathleen and Michael Wixted of Jarvisburg Margaret and Charles Parker of Kill Devil Hills, and his brother and sister in law, Joseph and Emma Shannon of Flagstaff AZ. Nieces and nephews, Patrick, Douglas and Christine Wixted, Shannon Parker, Charles Parker Jr. and Kate Parker-Reilly. He adored and was adored by his grand nieces and nephews, Daniel, Ethan, Nate, Alice, Ella, Caleb, Samuel and Reese.

Michael moved to the Outer Banks in November of 2001, after living all his life in Dutchess County, NY. He worked for the County for 27 years managing mail delivery and pick up routes between County Offices. He became a permanent fixture in the mailroom and a was well known and respected member of the team of county employees. He will always be remembered for his friendly outgoing manner, his strong work ethic and devotion to family and church.

Michael was very involved in many activities. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Grange, the Vanderbilt Estate Gardening Club and was a member of the crew of the Hudson River Sloop, the Clearwater just to mention a few. He enjoyed horseback riding, caning furniture, gardening, the Special Olympics and traveling. He was able to travel with his family and different groups to Alaska, Germany, Ireland, Hawaii, Poland, Korea and many parts of the United States. He enjoyed all of these aspects of his life and shared his tales of adventure with much enthusiasm.

In brief biography that was written by one of his counselors, the counselor described Mike as “the product of a loving and devoted family, good friends and strong support. He has personally removed the barriers in his life and has gone on to make a difference and positive impact on all those he touches. The encouragement of his family at home and at work has allowed him to enjoy such a full adventurous life.”

Mike was able to continue his involvement in activities and service organizations since moving to Kill Devil Hills. He was a member of the local Knights of Columbus Council as a 4th degree Knight (involving him further in the organization). He volunteered at the Colington Fire Department, was a member in the Outer Banks Stamp Club and an active member of The Crew of the shad boat “Spirit of Roanoke Islandʼ at the Roanoke Island Maritime Museum. He enjoyed his friends at Monarch Beach Club and joined them in participating at many Special Olympics Games.

His smile and engaging personality will be missed by all who ever met him.

The Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at Holy Redeemer By the Sea Catholic Church at 11 am Thursday May 5, 2016.  Father Bill Walsh will officiate.

Condolences to the family may be expressed via the on-line register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.  Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.