John P. Shinaberry Sr.

John Phillip Shinaberry Sr., 69 of Alanson, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home overlooking Crooked River with his loving wife by his side in the early dawn hours of Sunday, April 2, 2017.

He will be sorely missed by those who love him and had the privilege and honor to know him.  After a valiant fight, he is now free of illness and pain, riding his Harley and watching over his family and friends until we all get to meet again.

Born on January 15, 1948 in Detroit, John was the son of Robert Lee and Sena Catherine (Church) Shinaberry.   John grew up in Detroit and served courageously in Vietnam during the Vietnam War as a member of the U.S Army, Special Forces.

For the past 14 years, John has made his home on the east bank of the Crooked River in Alanson.  For several of those years, he has been the director of safety and security for Boyne Resorts; Boyne Highlands in Harbor Springs, MI and the Inn at Bay Harbor, an Autograph Collection Resort in Bay Harbor, MI.

A selfless gentle giant with a great sense of humor and a huge heart, John loved his family deeply including his four-footed fur babies (Sassy, Sasha, Samie, Sadie and Tink), his fellow comrades in arms, Harley Davidson motorcycles, his RZR side by side (not a Harley by a long stretch, but it enabled him to continue to “have the wind in his face”), Searay boat, the Florida Keys, and “all things outdoors”.

Surviving are his wife, Marcia L. Williams; a daughter, Jessica D. Gremillion, both of Alanson; a son, John Shinaberry Jr.; grandsons Andrew, Luke and Joe; and numerous nephews, nieces and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Dolly and Alice; and brothers, Douglas and Robert Lee Jr.

In keeping with his wishes, John’s family will have a celebration of his life privately (or several if they choose).  Those who would like to make any memorial contributions in John’s honor may do so to the Little Traverse Bay Humane Society or Brave Hearts Estate, both of which support causes very near and dear to his heart.

Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com