Martin "Marty" Shanahan

Martin Francis Shanahan, 72, of Lowell, Massachusetts, passed away on October 2, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on August 18, 1952, to Francis Martin and Pearline Cora Shanahan (née Wilson) in Lowell, Massachusetts, Martin "Marty" graduated from Lowell High School in 1969. Following his graduation, he began his service in the U.S. Air Force as a fighter pilot during the Vietnam War. After his time in the Air Force, Marty continued to serve his community as a police officer in Atlanta, Georgia. He later enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he worked as military police and earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

After completing his military service, Marty moved to Marina, California, where he served as a firefighter and as the chief of security for Monterey Peninsula Mobile Security. On March 7, 1986, he married Joy Carpenter, and together they built a life in Monterey, California.

Marty had a deep passion for singing, fishing, collecting Elks pins, and playing Candy Crush and Mahjong. As an active member of the Elks Lodge, including his time as Exalted Ruler, he often volunteered as a cook, sharing his love for experimenting with new recipes. He was known for his stubborn yet loving nature, paired with a playful and ornery spirit. A true goofball at heart, Marty’s caring and selfless personality shone through in his constant support and encouragement of family and friends.

Marty is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Joy. Together, they raised four children: Mark Shanahan (Sarah Dardick), Heather Carpenter, Trista Pence (Cody), and Ashley Shanahan (Roger Durdel). He is also survived by his 13 grandchildren and his three siblings: Katie Perez (Ricardo), Kevin Shanahan (Ilene), and Nene Shanahan. Marty was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Patricia (Pat) Lafountaine (Shanahan).

A private memorial service will be held in his honor. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Marty’s memory to the following:

Toledo-Sylvania Elks Lodge #53

3520 N Holland Sylvania Road

Toledo, Ohio 43615

Marty touched the lives of many, and though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in the beautiful memories we will always cherish. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from our community during this time.