Obituary of William Shane Speas

William Shane Speas 1939-2009 Born in Shelley, Idaho to Harry ad Cleo Speas, Shane was raised as a child in Oregon and later moved to Shelton, Washington where he was a member of the class of 1957. In addition to living in Camp Grisdale, where he worked as a highclimber, Shane also sailed on ocean-going tugboats in the Caribbean, owned a logging business, and was a long haul truck driver. Shane enjoyed fishing, hunting, his ’56 Ford, and horse racing. He also loved golf and was a “sandbagger with his son Vance in several father and son tournaments. Shane had a brief career in the U. S. Navy, traveling to Japan and Hong Kong, as evidenced by several tattoos. Shane was married to Julie Fry and together they had four sons, Reece, Vance, Shane, and Brian. He later married Diane Durand. In 1983, Shane married Lori James and together they resided in Olympia and Rochester. Shane was never one to be shy about sharing his opinions or giving advice. He could spot a “moron” with little effort. Often appearing cantankerous, Shane possessed a soft heart, particularly for orange cats. During his last years of life, Shane endured many painful struggles with his health. He did not complain, or ask why. He continued to live and make plans for next year’s garden, never doubting that he wouldn’t do it. A truer gladiator was never known. On October 14th, 2009, Shane experienced the heartbreak of losing his oldest son, Reece, to a work related accident. He was able to be together with his sons and grandchildren to remember Reece’s life. On October 29th they were brought together again as Shane prepared to leave this life. Shane is survived by his wife, Lori; daughter-in-law, Brenda Speas and children, Echo and Ky, and great grandson, Treven; son, Vance and his wife Gwen and children, Gerald and McKaylee; son, Shane and Bonnie (previously married to Eva Speas) and children, Amber, Christopher, Robert, Gage, and Brianna, and great grandson, Uriah; son, Brian and his wife Gail, and daughter, Shannon; sisters, Cherrie Reddoch and Lynne Andreason; brother, Reece Speas; sisters-in-law, Cheryl James (Bobby Brown) and Gayle James (Mike Schad); also numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Kitten Rescue of Mason County 420 N. 3rd St. Shelton WA 98584 OR Lewis County Animal Shelter PO Box 367 Chehalis WA 98532 OR or a favorite charity Please leave memories and condolences by clicking "View Guestbook" below.