As received from the O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home. If you have questions about, or potential corrections to the content, please contact the funeral home directly.
Phillip Michael Shanahan, 41, of Marquette, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on April 29, 2026. He was born on March 19, 1985, in Hancock, Michigan, to Michael and Jane (Recha) Shanahan.
Phil graduated from Hancock High School in 2003 and went on to attend Finlandia University, where he played soccer. He later continued his studies at Northern Michigan University, a move that marked the beginning of his deep and lasting connection to the Marquette community.
Marquette quickly became home to Phil. Over the years, he held several roles, but it was his career with Domino’s where he truly left his mark. Rising through multiple positions, he ultimately became the store manager in Marquette. In 2025, Phil was honored nationally with Domino’s prestigious Omega Challenge Award, recognizing his exceptional achievements in sales, service, and operational excellence. More meaningful than any accolade were the relationships he built, as Phil cared deeply for his team and fostered a workplace defined by camaraderie, respect, and lasting friendships.
Phil will be remembered as a genuinely kind, thoughtful, and generous person, someone who would go out of his way to help others without hesitation. He had a natural ability to connect with people and a warmth that made everyone feel welcome. Family meant everything to Phil. He treasured time spent with his mother, brother, extended family, and beloved dogs, often traveling to reconnect for holidays, special occasions, or simply to be together. In recent years, he became the driving force behind family gatherings, ensuring that loved ones came together to share stories, laughter, and meaningful time.
A passionate lover of good food, Phil found joy both in cooking and in discovering great meals. His trips home often revolved around the kitchen, where he especially cherished his mother’s cooking, frequently returning to Marquette with bags full of homemade favorites. Whether traveling for work or pleasure, he made it a point to seek out memorable dining experiences, often inspired by his favorite show, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Phil’s interests were as varied as his friendships. He played numerous sports throughout his life, including baseball, soccer, basketball, golf, and tennis. A true Yooper at heart, he was an avid Green Bay Packers fan and took great pride in their two Super Bowl championship victories. Phil was also an enthusiastic poker player, and his annual Christmas Eve poker tournament became a cherished tradition that friends and family looked forward to each year. He spent time at the YMCA but was happiest outdoors, biking, swimming in Lake Superior, relaxing at the beach, or enjoying time with friends. One of his favorite gathering spots was Blackrocks Brewery, where his presence was so well loved that a beer called Phils Deep V was named in his honor.
Known for his unique sense of style and easygoing spirit, Phil was the kind of person who wore shorts year round, no matter the weather. He maintained friendships across all stages of his life and brought people together effortlessly. His laughter, loyalty, and presence left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Phil was preceded in death by his father, Michael Shanahan; grandparents Paul and Shirley Recha and Leo and Ardith Shanahan; uncles David Shanahan and Dan Recha; aunt Pat Arsulowicz; and his beloved fur siblings Brittney, Lucy, Zoey, and Juniper.
He is survived by his mother, Jane Shanahan; his brother, Ryan Shanahan; many aunts, uncles, cousins, lifelong friends; and his cherished fur siblings Jackey, Sandor, and Vito.
Phil’s life was defined by kindness, connection, and an unwavering love for the people around him. His absence will be deeply felt, and his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched.
Phil’s family would be honored if friends and family would attend his celebration of life that will take place at the Keweenaw Brewing Company in Houghton on Friday May 8th at 11am.
At the family’s request please no flowers and to direct donations to a boxer rescue of Michigan or the Copper country humane society.
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