John J Shea

John J. Shea, age 73 of Titusville, passed away July 2, 2020 at Hospice of St. Francis, Inc.   He was married to Linda Darlene (Kollaritsch) Shea.

John was born to parents the late John J. and Anna J. (Desmond) Shea on March 23, 1947 in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

After graduating Somerville Trade High School on June 14, 1965 John enlisted in the United States Air Force June 28, 1965.  He proudly and honorably served his country retiring September 1,1985 with the rank of Master Sergeant.  While serving he continued his education.   He earned the degree of Associate in Applied Science in Technical Management from Community College of the Air Force in 1984, and a Bachelor of Science from the Patrick Air Force Base Branch of Rollins College in 1985.  He also took several military courses including USAF Special Operations School, Dynamics of International Terrorism,  and Advanced EOD Training Course.  During his 20 years of active duty he served five years as Munitions Systems Supervisor;  three years as Instructor Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician;  and eleven years as Explosive Ordnance Disposal Superintendent.  He was well respected for his integrity, his expertise, and his dedicated leadership style.  While enlisted John traveled to many countries and earned numerous decorations, badges, medals, and citations.

With his military training and education, he started his second career in 1985 with Lockheed Martin, the prime contractor for the space shuttles.  He began his career as a Safety Manager.  He continued taking classes and in 1995 he earned the designation of Certified Manager from the Institute of Certified Professional Managers.  In 1998 when the companies merged, Lockheed then became known as United Space Alliance and John worked as a Support Test Manager in the Firing Room of the Launch Control Center until his retirement July 2011.

John was a dedicated member of VFW 4643, Satellite  Beach; American Legion Post 359, Port St. John;  Moose Lodge 1962, Mims; and a charter member 035 of the EOD Master Blasters Inc., an association of air force EOD personnel.

John is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Linda Shea of Titusville, step-daughter Michele Kristin (Christopher) of Somonauck, IL, step-granddaughter Dana Galindez (Gonzalo) of Illinois, step-grandson Jacob Rockwood (Cassie) of Illinois, and three step-greatgrandchildren Kaylin Garrett, Riley Garrett, and Arianna Galindez.

John was a loving person with a quick wit, and a great sense of humor who always had a story to tell to keep you laughing.  He will be missed by all who knew him and loved him.

Visitation will be Wednesday, July 15, 2020 from 1-3 P.M. with interment to follow at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Hospice of St. Francis, Inc. in his name.

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