Francis Albert “Pete” Shinnamon

Class of 1980

Pete Shinnamon was born in April 1924, in Relay, MD. A graduate of Catonsville High School and Washington College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, Pete dedicated 39 years of his life to the candy industry. After graduating from Washington College, Pete joined the V-12 Navy program where he spent two years serving in the Pacific.

Pete began his career as a salesman at Proctor & Gamble and in 1949 joined the James O. Welch Co. In 1956, he struck out on his own with the founding of brokerage Shinnamon Assoc. which he ran until his retirement.

Throughout his career, Pete held on to his Navy roots and skippered boats with his wife Mary Jane Shinnamon. Together, Mary Jane and Pete had three children, Peter, Judith and Susan, who later gave them five beautiful grandchildren.

Pete’s many industry honors include being named a Candy Ambassador in 1967. In 1974, the Confectionery Sales Club of Baltimore honored his contributions and commitment by bestowing him with the T. Donald Elliot Award.

At the age of 91, Pete passed away from an illness. He was a loving husband for 55 years and was able to meet his three great grandchildren. Pete passed peacefully on July 4, 2015, and will be remembered in the hearts of family, friends, and the candy industry.

Pete passed away on July 4, 2015, following a short illness.