Obituary: Shagen, John R.
Age 80
Born November 24th 1932 in Shenandoah, PA.
He was a very proud Veteran of the US Air Force for 23 years, serving in Vietnam War and various bases, with a multitude of accomplishments and awards.
He retired as Chief Master Sergeant from Fairchild Air Force Base and the family settled into their home in Spokane.
He belonged to International Footprinters, served on Civil Service board and various other clubs.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with family and friends.
John had an incredible sense of humor, quickly liked by others he touched, dedicated to his family and believed it was his gift to them to be the best he could be.
He proved this time after time during his lifetime of marital and parenthood happiness.
Always handsome by any standards (just ask his six dancing girls) John was very popular throughout his high school years.
Following graduation from Mount Carmel High School, he joined the US Air Force and began his long career.
While he was stationed at Chennault AFB, he met Geraldine Vige who was working as a telephone operator and who immediately stole his heart.
John is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Geraldine “Jeri” Shagen, daughters Paula Annette and Patrick Thornton, Carolyn Elizabeth Shagen, son John Gerald and Audrey McGill, granddaughters Danni and husband Ryan Hames, Jennika Simmons and three beautiful great-grandkids, Brayden, Rylan and Brynn, niece Barbara Anne Donohue and husband Bob.
Preceded in death by his parents Pauline Meffesky Shagen, John J. Shagen and sister Anna Marie Bressi.
He is already deeply missed by his wife, Jeri and their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well as other family members in CA, PA and LA.
A Rosary Service will be held Wednesday, August 7th, 2013 at 7PM at Hennessey-Smith Funeral Home, 2203 N. Division, with a funeral service Thursday, August 8th, 2013 at 1:30 at Hennessey Smith, followed with a 3 PM graveside service at Greenwood Memorial.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s name to Parkinson’s Foundation or Hospice of Spokane.
To view John’s online memorial, please visit www.hennesseyfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements entrusted to: