Patrick "Pat" Allen Shaw, 78, of Duluth, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026 at Twin Ports Health Services.

Pat was born on August 24, 1947 in Duluth, Minnesota to the late Donald and Florence Shaw. He was a 1965 graduate of Denfeld High School. After graduating, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. After that he was assigned aboard the USS Hornet. While serving, Pat had the unique privilege to be one of the few photographers during the Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 recovery operations - an experience he cherished and shared throughout his life.

Following his service, Pat returned home to Duluth and worked for School District 709 in the AV Department, providing audio-visual support throughout the district before eventually joining Plaza Super One as a cashier. Known for his friendly smile and easy conversations, he became a familiar favorite to shoppers and coworkers alike. After retiring, Pat devoted himself to serving fellow veterans. He volunteered extensively with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), often transporting disabled veterans to medical appointments, and later served as DAV Chapter 6 Commander. He was also a founding member of the N.V.V.A. Pat's dedication to veterans and his passion for helping others was something he carried with deep sincerity and pride.

More than anything, Pat loved people. He was social by nature - equally content grabbing a meal with friends as he was striking up long conversations with strangers who never stayed strangers for long. His humor, kindness, and enthusiasm for good company left lasting imprints everywhere he went.

Pat is survived by his wife of 41 years, Renette "Reney" (Gunnarson) Shaw; children, Sadie (Mike) Anderson of Port Angeles, WA and Max (Sarah) Shaw of Superior, WI; grandchildren, Dalton Shaw (19), Oliver Mayo (19), Lilyann Shaw (17), and Charlotte Shaw (9), who brought him immense joy; siblings, Tom (Marlene) Shaw and Susan Adams; as well as many nieces, nephews, and a wide community of friends and acquaintances, whose lives were brightened by knowing him.

Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00 – 4:00 PM on January 26th with Military Honors at 4:00 PM. Please join family and friends to honor and share stories of Pat.

He will be remembered for his generosity, stories, service to fellow veterans, and love of community. He will be deeply missed.

The family would like to thank Aspirus St. Luke's Home Hospice, especially Donna and Nicole, the staff at St. Lukes Hospital 2 West, and the wonderful staff at Twin Ports Health Services, especially Tammy and Melodi.

https://www.fox21online.com/2025/08/22/duluth-veteran-and-volunteer-recognized-for-significant-service/