Roll Call Tribute

Albert Michael "Al" Shannon 

February 6, 1951 - October 20, 2025 

Albert Michael Shannon, known affectionately as Al to his family and friends, passed away on October 20, 2025, at the age of 74, in Round Rock, Texas. Al's life was marked by his intelligence, thoughtfulness, and analytical mind, traits that guided him through a successful engineering career and a fulfilling personal life.

Al was born on February 6th, 1951, to parents Baker Lee and Nancy Shannon. As a youth, he was active in the Boy Scouts of America where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He also spent two summers as a counselor out at the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico.

Al attended college at Texas A&M University where he was active in the Corps of Cadets Outfit Animal 8 - Class of 1973. It was in College Station that he met the love of his life Mary Jane Ganter. They dated throughout college and married soon after graduation in 1973.

Al graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, a field that perfectly suited his inquisitive and detailed-oriented nature. His career as a Professional Petroleum Engineer was marked by numerous accomplishments and respect from his colleagues. Al's professional life was paralleled by his active involvement in various associations, where he generously contributed his time and expertise.

As a family man, Al's interests were diverse, but he had a particular passion for the outdoors, often going camping with his kids during their time in Indian Guides, Boy Scouts and Indian Princesses. His enthusiasm for his alma mater was infectious, and he bled maroon, always ready to show his support for Texas A&M.

One of the greatest joys in Al's life after retirement was being involved with his grandchildren's activities. Whether it was designing soccer locker room decor, running little league walk-up songs, or putting together reels of videos of baseball and football games, Al was a very active grandparent. He also took the family on multiple vacations to National Parks around the country and beautiful places in Europe. His grandchildren will carry forward the joy of learning and the love for the beauty of the outdoors that Al instilled in them.

A devout Christian, Al's faith was a cornerstone of his life, providing him with strength and comfort. His love for his family was evident in everything he did. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Jane Shannon, with whom he shared a loving and dedicated marriage of 52 years. Together, they raised a beautiful family. He leaves behind son Andrew Shannon, daughter-in-law Sara Shannon, and cherished grandkids: Jacob, Norah, and Liam Shannon. Al was also a proud father to his daughter Erica McDonald, son-in-law Mark McDonald, and grandfather to Peyton, Hayley, Tyler, and Ryan McDonald. He is also survived by his sister Barbara Clements and niece Samantha Kimmey.

Al Shannon was the epitome of a family man, always there to lend a helping hand, offer a word of advice, or share in the successes of his loved ones. His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those who were fortunate enough to know him. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him to live life with passion, integrity, and kindness.