Brennan Joseph Shardlow

ONTONAGON, Mich. - Brennan Joseph Shardlow came into this world on Jan. 16, 1989, in Hancock, to Robert Shardlow and Jennifer Heikkila. On Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022, he went onto his next big adventure.

Brennan had a passion to be out in nature and saw the beauty in everything. He always lived life to the fullest. He didn't just live - he lived BIG and on his own terms. He was always kind to everyone he met and made a point to leave them better than when he found them. He had a way of leaving a lasting impression - whether it be because of his generosity, his willingness to always lend a helping hand, or by making friends wherever he went. He was always cheerful, caring and had a smile on his face.

His drive to really help others and make a difference began as a junior in high school when he and his childhood best friend, Billy Mladenoff, joined the Army National Guard with the buddy system. After graduating from Ontonagon Area Schools in 2007, they both went on to serve in Afghanistan in Operation Enduring Freedom. After his military career, Brennan worked on the road in manufacturing and recently commented that he had worked in as many as 30 states. Brennan returned home to Ontonagon a few years ago and took a job as a welder. He took great pride in his work at Lake Shore (currently Trident) in fulfilling military contracts.

Brennan's life is so hard to sum up in a few short sentences. He was so many things, a son, brother, uncle, grandson, nephew, cousin, friend and soldier. He had a sparkle in his eyes, a swagger to his step and a smile that could light up a room. He had an easy going but wild and crazy personality. He was such a kid at heart. He loved being at the beach, hiking, exploring and traveling, but always made time for his family and those he loved.

Brenna's memory will forever live on by his loving parents, Rob (Julie) Shardlow and Jennifer Heikkila (Gary Johnson); sisters, Ashley Shardlow (Roy Jackson), Trista and Ella Shardlow; grandparents, Ken and Sandy Heikkila; aunts, uncles, numerous cousins and many friends. His niece, Monroe Lapp (who he always called "Mo"), and nephew, John Jackson, will really miss his funny antics and his willingness to always play along. He will especially be missed by his cousin, best friend and adventure buddy, Holden Bradfield; and ride or die cousin and friends, Brittany Heath and Kyl Varecha.

He will remain forever young playing cards with his Grandma Alma Shardlow, watching Packer games with his Great-Grandma Mike (Margaret) Livingston, and raising hell with his best friend, Billy Mladenoff. He was also received with love by many others that went on before him.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 1, at 4:20 p.m. at his favorite spot on the beach by his Mom's house, (Lake Shore Road - Old Mill entrance).

Cane Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.