Shawn Francis Maguire, 50, died on Nov. 8, 2014, at his home in Kalispell, of natural causes.
Shawn was born on May 2, 1964, in Sacramento, Calif., to parents Julianne Gabbert Maguire and Francis “Frank” Maguire. Shawn spent his early years in California, moving to Oregon and finally settling in Montana, first in Polson and then moving to his current residence in Kalispell in 2007.
His chosen career was in nursing and he received a degree as a licensed practical nurse from Flathead Valley Community College , and had planned to get his registered nurse degree with the transition course offered by FVCC.
He was a committed caregiver and he had empathy for those individuals who were in long-term care and also strived to assist those in recovery and anxious to go home. He enjoyed working with the staff at the Heritage Place and planned to continue there for many years.
Shawn loved the outdoors, especially hiking and photography in Glacier National Park, making many trips there with friends and family. Shawn found AA a beneficial program and he reached out to share their message, promoting continued attendance to maintain an alcohol-free lifestyle.
Shawn was committed to his faith and found great appreciation for the Fresh Life and Skull Church in Kalispell. He enjoyed the Saturday service in person whenever possible, but sometimes relied on the Internet for the service. He met many wonderful fellow members in the years he attended service there, and participated in a number of Bible study groups.
Just weeks before his death, he met the "girl of his dreams," Annika Wormgoor, lamenting the fact that they had not met earlier. He was determined to win her favor, and hoped to make a life with her here in Montana. They had many things in common, especially nursing and enthusiasm for Fresh Life Church and the “Big Sky” of Montana.
Shawn was an honorably discharged U.S. Army veteran stationed in Germany.
Shawn is survived by his son, Patrick Finncasey Maguire, of which he was extremely proud; his mother, Julianne Maguire; brothers, Michael and Patrick Maguire; and numerous niece and nephews and cousins. He also is survived by his longtime friend, Sheryl Elizabeth Sissom.
Shawn was preceded in death by his father, Frank Maguire; grandmother, J. Willene Amell; uncle, F. Lee Gabbert; aunts, Goldena Craig and Carol Fisher; and cousins, Glenn Tipton and James Craig.
There will be no service, but a short prayer by those who liked and/or loved him would speed him on his way to the place where he was confident he would be welcomed.
Cremation will be handled by Buffalo Hill Funeral and Crematory. Friends are encouraged to visit the website, www.buffalohillfh.com , to leave notes of condolence for the family.