Frank G. Shannis

He was born on February 8, 1917 in New Britain, CT. He was a graduate of the University of Florida where he played football and served as captain of the basketball team. He entered the US Army soon after graduating from college. He married his high school sweetheart, Jean (Nurczyk) Shannis in 1942. One month later, he left for a four-year tour with the 5th Army brigade as part of the North Africa campaign and the liberation of Europe in WWII. He was awarded a Bronze Star medal for outstanding service and was discharged with the rank of Major.

After his military service, he joined Litton Industries and later was employed by National Cash Register (NCR) as a sales manager. He retired in 1982 and moved to Pocasset, MA. where he and his wife lived for 21 years.

Mr. Shannis was a member of the Rotary Club of Springfield, MA and the Lions Club of Wilbraham, MA. He belonged to St. John's Roman Catholic Church of Pocasset, MA.

Frank will be remembered as a great mentor who lived life to the fullest and cared deeply about others. He inspired many in his battle against Parkinson's disease with his grace and determination to enjoy life, no matter the challenges. He enjoyed woodworking, golf and tennis. He also was an avid gardener and political debater.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, he is survived by his wife of 66 years, Jean (Nurczyk) Shannis of Manchester; a son, Raymond R. Shannis, and his wife Lyn of Brownsville, VT; a daughter, Laurie S. Boerma, and her husband, Dr. Hans Boerma of Birchrunville, PA; a son, Francis P. Shannis, and his wife, Joanne of Hooksett, NH; seven grandchildren and 3 great-grand children.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Monday, February 18, 2008 at St. Catherine Church, Webster St., Manchester, NH. A private interment took at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, 1359 Broadway, Suite 1509, New York, NY 10018

Lambert Funeral Home & Crematory, 1799 Elm St., Manchester, NH was in charge of arrangements.