Obituary of Joseph Wayne Shanahan

Joseph Wayne Shanahan Glace Bay, N.S. Wayne passed in his 74th year after a beautiful day, a full Harvest Moon and the air filled with Fall his favorite season. He passed in the home he loved with Joann by his side, his partner in life and love for over 50 years. The last words he heard were “I love you.” Life was not always gentle for Wayne, the last few years he struggled with health issues, but he never complained and was so grateful for the wonderful support of friends and family. He knew he was blessed in life in so many ways. Wayne’s first blessing was being born to wonderful loving parents, Joseph Shanahan, and Anna Shanahan (LeBlanc). He was little brother to Larry (Joan) and big brother to Gerry (Michelle). An adventurous childhood and adolescence followed, filled with fast cars and motorcycles that he often re-built. Wayne’s career took him to many provinces through Canada and he enjoyed them all. He lived for many years in Alberta and Ontario before settling in as an Occupational Health and Safety Officer with the Dept. of Labor. Wayne was a conscientious worker and took pride in all he did both at home and on the job. Wayne and family spent over 33 treasured summers in Ironville where they would watch the sunset over the beautiful Bras D’or. Trampolines, rafts, wharfs and bon fires added more magic. Everyone was welcome. Wayne was very grateful for all the support shown to both him and his family. We could not have found better neighbours and friends in both Ironville and Glace Bay, fun, caring, kind and always there in good times and tough times. His biggest and best blessing were his boys Ryan and Colin. He loved them dearly. In healthier times he walked with Ryan everyday, and weekends were spent hiking in the highlands or local hikes like Louisburg and Coxheath. Wonderful memories were made hiking in Newfoundland, Gros Morne, and many other trails. Thanksgiving weekends usually meant a trip to Uisge Ban Falls. Wayne loved going to local hockey games with Colin and made great memories going to NHL games in Ottawa and Las Vegas. He considered these trips with Colin to be some of the best times of his life. Wayne is survived by his wife Joann (MacInnis) and sons Ryan and Colin, brother Gerry (Michelle) and Brothers in law, Gary MacInnis, Donnie MacInnis (Jane), Craig MacInnis (Cathy) and sister-in-law Moira MacLeod (Gary), many nieces and nephews, and countless friends. A Celebration of Wayne’s Life will take place on Friday, October 6, 2023, from 2-4 p.m., in T.J. Tracey Funeral Home (Lower Level), 370 Reserve St., Glace Bay, N.S. 902-849-4199. Words of comfort may be expressed to Wayne’s family by visiting www.tjtracey.com.