Kevin Shea

Peacefully at the Perley Rideau Veterans Health Centre on February 6. Predeceased by his parents Winnifred and Bernard; his sister Maureen Mead and infant son, Mark. Born in Burnley, Lancashire, England and immigrated with his father Bernard to Canada at 11 years of age. Bernard was a pilot in the RAF and Kevin followed in his footsteps. Kevin joined the RCAF at 18 years old and trained as a navigator. He proudly served as an Armament Systems Electronics Technician performing maintenance and inspection of the nose mounted radar on the CF100 Canuck thus allowing the interceptor squadron at Uplands to operate both day and night protecting North American airspace from Soviet Intruders and long range bombers. Kevin also trained in Colorado as a Long Range Guided Missiles Specialist during the Cuban Crisis.

In 1962 Kevin moved on in his career to the Computer Division of Honeywell Controls where he spent 29 years. Kevin was proud to sell the first Mainframe Computer to Carleton University. In retirement Kevin built a beautiful cottage in Lanark Highlands. The family loved that cottage. After building the cottage Kevin moved on to a successful Renovation Business.

When he was not working, Kevin loved to visit Hawaii where his daughter Susan lived. He sailed, socialized and explored the island with Susan and totally relaxed. His travels included visiting his birthplace in Northern England and Ireland with his wife Shirley. His son Aaron was married in Hong Kong and Kevin was able to tour China and climbed the Great Wall of China. His last trip was a tour of the Rhine River on a River Cruise. He commented often on the beauty of Europe.

His social life was full. He was a Kinsman, a poker player, a breakfast buddy and a friend to many. He loved large gatherings of friends and family at the cottage or at home. He was always smiling at these gatherings. He loved music and strumming on his guitar.

Despite failing abilities, for the past three years Kevin maintained his sense of humour and philosophical attitude towards life. The family is grateful for the dedicated care of the staff at the Perley.

Kevin will be forever loved and remembered by Shirley, his best friend and wife, and family Susan, Matthew (Carol), Aaron (Vicky). As well as Misty, Kyle (Sheena), Katie (Michael), Steven (Crystal), Matthew, Shawn, William, Henry and great grandchildren Declan Shea, Nora Shea and Maverick Durand. He is also survived by his sister Pat Darby, sister-in-law Carolann Scrim (David) and brother-in-law Charles Smith (Louise). Kevin enjoyed and loved all of his nieces and nephews so much and they felt his love.

There will be a private family burial ceremony. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 7, from 1 - 4 at Beechwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Kevin's name to Parkinson's Canada.