Professional experienceJOHN T. O'SHAUGHNESSY
John T. O'Shaughnessy was a dedicated and passionate professional who made a significant impact in his field. Born in New York City in 1954, he spent his entire life as a proud resident of Staten Island. Sadly, John passed away on July 8, 2019, at a family reunion in Brainerd, Minnesota.
John came from a long line of O'Shaughnessys in New York City. His ancestors were deeply rooted in the city's history, with records dating back to the late 19th century. John's great-grandfather, William O'Shaughnessy, was a firefighter and his grandmother, Mary "Welsh," played an essential role in shaping his family's heritage.
One of the most notable moments captured in history is the iconic 1932 photograph of construction workers enjoying their lunch on the 69th floor of the Rockefeller Center. This fascinating image, known as "Lunch Atop a Skyscraper," has become a symbol of the resilience, strength, and determination of New Yorkers.
John T. O'Shaughnessy was deeply passionate about this photograph and its historical significance. He dedicated countless hours researching and studying the story behind this iconic image. In 2013, he was even featured in the documentary film "Men at Lunch," which delves into the lives and experiences of the workers captured in the photograph.
Throughout his career, John made it his mission to preserve and honor the memory of those ironworkers. He believed that their bravery and camaraderie represented the spirit of New York City, transcending time and inspiring future generations.
Despite his untimely passing, John T. O'Shaughnessy's contributions will continue to inspire and educate others about the significance of "Lunch Atop a Skyscraper." His dedication to preserving history and celebrating the strength of the human spirit will forever be remembered.
Thank you for being here today to commemorate the life and legacy of John T. O'Shaughnessy. May his memory live on and continue to inspire us all.
