Richard A. Shane

Westbrook-Richard A. Shane, 87, passed away on September 26, 2021 after battling a steady decline in health. He was born on August 11, 1934 in Denmark, Maine the son of Richard and Peggy (Smith) Shane.

He was predeceased by his Father Richard "Big Rich" Mother Buelah " Peggy" and quite recently his Aunt Ruth Nutting who was just shy of 98.

Richard is survived by his wife of 58 years Diane (Ottati) Shane, his son Patrick, granddaughters Andrea and Amber and their dog Dixon whom he grew greatly attached to and would always make sure he was included in the visits. He is also survived by his cousin Marsha Martin whom he recently enjoyed a long conversation with.

Richard grew up in Westbrook attending and graduating Westbrook High School, after graduating he attended Springfield College obtaining his master’s degree all the while working at the SD Warren Mill alongside his dad "big Rich".  Richard also served in the National Guard as a heavy weapons infantryman for company D of the 103 infantry in Westbrook he was honorable discharged on June 21, 1956.

In 1967 he bought his forever home on a little dirt road in Westbrook that was a fixer upper to say the least which he did on his "summers off” until he acquired the property across the road and built his parents their first and only home, and shortly after his in-laws bought the next property and he helped them build yet another house, then for years the families addresses were 21, 22, and 23

He was a beloved teacher for 25 years teaching at the Wentworth School in Scarborough he taught mostly science and a little math. He was known to engage in some antics with his coworkers and friends Phil, Mark and George sometimes making Charlie the victim.

He was also a coach for multiple sports while at the Wentworth School he was also a coach for his son Patrick’s sports in Westbrook.

He would be recognized most places he went where he would hear someone yelling “Hello Mr. Shane” that recognition trickled down to his son was frequently asked “are you Mr. Shane’s son”.

While his son was growing up, Richard not only coached his baseball teams he also enjoyed taking a weeklong trip each summer canoeing down the Saco River. They also enjoyed many trips skiing in the winter.

He enjoyed every stage of his granddaughters growing into the fine young ladies they are today, rarely calling them Andrea and Amber but Tusa and Sweet Pea. He would comment on how much they have grown and learned between visits. On a fixed income He and Diane saved "a little at a time" until it grew to the point of quite an amazing college graduation gift to each of them.

The family deeply appreciates the care and kindness of the staff at Hospice of Southern Maine especially Jay, Hannah, and Leslie whom he called "his Comrade from God's country" also Maria of M.M.C. They formed a special bond and she kept in touch till the end. The family would also like to express their appreciation of the support of many friends, especially the long-time support from his neighbor Anthony.

Honoring his wishes the service will be held privately.

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