Peter Owens Shea, a prominent figure in the heavy construction industry for over a century, passed away at his Newport Beach home on October 23 at the age of 88. He had been battling Parkinson’s disease for some time. A memorial service will be held on November 11 at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church.
Shea was an integral part of J.F. Shea Co., Inc., known for its contributions to iconic projects such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Hoover Dam. Growing up around construction sites, he joined his cousin John and brother Edmund Jr. in co-owning the newly restructured company in 1961 as Vice President before becoming President of its subsidiary J.F. Shea Construction.
Under Peter’s leadership, J.F.Shea Co achieved great success through innovative practices and advancements within the industry since he took charge in 1960s alongside John and Edmund Jr.. The company expanded beyond heavy construction to include one of America’s largest privately-owned home building companies – Shea Homes – along with real estate development firm Shea Properties.
Aside from his work with JF.Shea Co., Peter also served on various boards including AGC California and Beavers Association while being a trustee for University Of California Berkeley Foundation & member advisory board UC Irvine Business School . He received prestigious awards like Beavers Award & Moles Award during this time period too.Peter was deeply committed to supporting Catholic education especially Jesuit schools ,and helping those facing difficult situations .
He is survived by wife Carolyn H.Shea ; children Catherine N.Johnson,Peter O.Shea,Jr,Sarah H.She; son-in-law Charles M.Johnson Jr.; daughter-in-law Deborah D.Walbert-She; grandchildren Trey Johnson,Natalie Baber,Luke She,Dylan Johnson,Carsen She,Andy Johnson,Peter O.She III,Lily She; great-grandchildren Charles IV Austin Jacobes ; siblings Henry (wife Joan) and Mary Elizabeth Callaghan (husband John); 22 nieces and nephews; in-laws Roy & Laurie Jacobes.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Loyola High School of Los Angeles or Walk to Defeat ALS Charlotte in honor of Peter Shea.
