He Shared A Gem
During Covid, because of a combination of things, I experienced burnout. Shane and Vanessa were always home and family to me, but during this time when my heart, thoughts, and …
A. T.
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1 min read
Welcome to Memories — a collection of stories from friends and family.
If you have a story, message, or memory of Shane, we would be grateful to receive it.
Please use the link to the Google Form below. Submissions may be lightly edited for clarity and formatting before publishing.
During Covid, because of a combination of things, I experienced burnout. Shane and Vanessa were always home and family to me, but during this time when my heart, thoughts, and …
A. T.
I have so many memories of Shane. My family loved Shane and Vanessa so much. He and Vanessa would come over and share some of their experiences with us and our young sons.
Cammie and Family
I always save the best for last. this could be long or not, but it’s what I have. I’ve had and still have a dad, but it’s no better when they left the truth and become a little …
Sofia Ponce
I remember a phrase Shane used a lot. He’d say, “It occurs to me…”
Steve Ward
I wanted to say how we remember Shane giving a talk in Rio Blanco and in the small village where your room got flooded. Then the trip to vista tics I remember Shane just using his …
Sandra Dowie
I remember it was September 1999 and I was invited to come to Bethel. I arrived on the week of a Hurricane. I received my blue folder at 124 desk by Mark Bowden and I remember new …
Chris Miller
When we heard the announcement about Shane dying, Rubén immediately said, for being by so incredibly smart, a total computer nerd, Shane was so incredibly loving, a great Shepherd …
Ruben and Isha Castro
Shane made a deep and lasting impression on me and Ryan. Many fond memories of service in Wyoming, Nicaragua, and other seldom worked territories have Shane as a large part of …
Thea and Ryan
After being in Bethel few weeks, Shane had lunch with me. He listened and shared his experiences. That helped me to calm down.
Jonathan Longwill
In the months before his accident, Shane and I had a number of videoconferences and calls. I was always impressed by his kindness, good humor, and modesty. I distinctly remember …
Anonymous
One of my fondest memories of Shane is when he gave me a handshake for the first time. It was a very light squeeze, but I then asked him to give me “a bro handshake!” The squeeze …
Anonymous
I never got to tell you how comforting Shane was when we came in September for the Gilead Grad and you sat in the same row close to us. We had just gone through some very …
Dawn and Tully Wright
I’ll never forget the time when I was a young, overwhelmed white guy in Chimalhuacán and Jehovah sent a dynamic duo to my congregation—a couple who showed me how to be patient and …
Will & Alex
We think back to when that Wednesday evening dinner in the pavilion by the lake that marked our best moment in Warwick, we were not just in each other’s company. We were in the …
Sam and Diana Pogosyan, Armenian Branch
We look forward to creating many happy memories with Shane in the new world!
Bob and Ketra Ciranko
We are very grateful for the opportunity to meet Shane and to enjoy very beautiful memories of a shepherding visit that Jehovah gave us through our dear brother.
Frica Family
Our memory is Shane’s smile in the gleaning line! We will miss it!
Peter and Nia Price
We would have found it difficult to imagine–when we first met Shane–that anything could match his towering height. But we were wrong–his smile eclipsed even his stature. That …
Luke and April
Shane always acknowledged everyone in the hallways, made small conversation with his happy demeanor. We admired that because we need it at Bethel.
DeGuzmans
I first met Shane in 1998. He had so many admirable qualities back then–even at such a young age. Great sense of humor, so kind, and such a zeal for Jehovah.
Heather and Jason E.
The memory that always comes to mind is playing the game Euchre in Global Healthcare in the evenings. It was my first time meeting you and Shane and he was always smiling and …
Cat Kildahl
Many of us had the pleasure of knowing Brother Perry, and we remember him a a kind and joyful person, always with a smile.
WHQ Travel
Shane sent me a reassuring message the day of my wedding. He was a great friend, can’t wait to see him again in paradise.
Javier Dominguez
From the time I was little, Mom would point to Shane and Vanessa as examples to follow, with their wedding picture on her desk. Shane and Vanessa gave everything to Jehovah in his …
Casey Waln
Memories of Shane come to mind. We share them and it brings a smile to our face. My mom remembers a funny story that she and Shane did a local walk together for MS
Erin DiBacco
Having worked closely with Shane made me appreciate his wonderful qualities such as approachability, kindness and spiritual focus.
Tim Lopez
I loved how Shane was always happy and greeted me with the best smile. I also will never forget visiting him at Helen Hayes where he wanted us to say a prayer and was still …
Jonathan and Paige Shafer
“Big Daddy Shane” That is how I always thought of Shane, not just big in size but the biggest HEART!, kind loving, always smiling. Never in a bad mood. I said he always made me …
Sherrie Steen
We always appreciated Shane’s calm and humble demeanor.
Paul and Su-Lin Willies
No words can convey how much Shane meant to all of us. He was a spiritual, loving, compassionate, funny, smart, friends and fellow worker. We cherish our moments with him. He was …
Central America HDC
Hearing the sad news has made me very sad because I feel your pain and I wish you didn’t go through this. Jehovah God is also very sad, it was never his wish that his friends had …
Abi and Milton Mykiwka
It was late July 2002, Shane and Doug came up to meet my friend and I for the first time. He was a happy, kind person who carried a journal and thought deeply about many things. …
Heather Petersen
Shane was special. He was a remarkable person, loved and respect by everyone. His exceptional kindness, warmth and humility made you love him.
Anonymous
I really enjoyed getting to talk to Shane. He recommended some books to read and I purchased them. He was so easy to talk to and felt like a big brother–a very kind hearted and …
Cheri
You know it’s really hard to choose just one memory. My favorite NY trip of all was coming with Erin and Shannon to visit him in Brooklyn. He toured us all around the city and …
Dev
In the Mexico Branch we knew Shane as a spiritual and hard-working man. Shane was always with a smile. We look forward to seeing him again.
Jorge, Gisell and Mattias Montaño
We will miss our gentle giant, giant in so many ways; giant smile, heart, humility and mind.
Javier and Milagros Hernandez
Shane and Vanessa have always been the greatest example of what a married couple should be. Shane’s love was always so sweet and apparent, truly we wanted to be able to follow in …
Rene and Neissa
Shane wanted to make our Welcome to Warwick special, so he asked Gaius for a recommendation on german beer. He got us Hacker-Pschorr as our house warming gift.
Tom & Tina Roggenstein
We met Shane in the line at a Gilead Graduation in Patterson. We were waiting to get into the Gilead Classroom tour. We remember now nice he was.
Brey and Andrea Fleegle
When we think of Shane, his warm smile immediately comes to mind. He noticed people, loved people, and treated them kindly. There is no doubt that he loved and appreciated his …
Central America Branch Committee
We did not know Shane well when we first arrived to Warwick but he greeted Nicole and I often. I remember once he told us he remembers helping us get health care worked out while …
Chris and Nicole
When we were in Pioneer School 2007, Shane recognized me right away. Although I didn’t remember that at first, he was my dipper on the day of my baptism. But Shane remembered. …
Ashley Battaglia
What a wonderful spiritual man Shane was. When we think of him, we always think of his displays of “goodness.” He went beyond what was right or even kind, but he gave to his …
Scott and Susie
We met Shane when we arrived at Bethel. He was so warm and welcoming. He always greeted us and we appreciated his joy and zeal at Bethel.
Gary and Melissa Tipton
We will always remember Shane’s beautiful smile and all his kind ’thank yous'.
Melinda and Jean
Shane was kind, thoughful, and genuinely interested in others. His smile will never be forgotten.
David and Shannon Caviness
Every moment with Shane was an undeserved kindness. Such a humble, loving , joking friend! Our lunches were so precious to me.
Kharis
Shane helped me when I was young. I loved sharing pioneer school , visiting Nicaragua, and traveling to Washington with Shane and Vanessa. To say Shane will be missed is an …
Bailey
Shane is one of the most warm and kind-hearted persons I’ve ever met. Whenever we would run into each other, he would always say, “It’s good to see you. How have you been?” in a …
Joshua C.
I remember in the hospital how he was always so kind and always smiling and saying hi when someone came in. He was always telling the staff and anyone who came in to help him with …
Celestina
We will remember Shane with his big smile, helping the young ones in the congreation and of course his therapy, taking care of the Kingdom Hall gardens.
Josue and Yudy
I would just like to let you know that you and Mr Shane embodied the light and love of God with your joy and warmth, genuineness and kindness. May he continue to bless you and …
Ashley Mosquea, Helen Hayes Nurse
We will never forget his loving smile and kindness. His laughter could light up a room and life of the downhearted.
Wendell and Lorraine Morgan
I remember the night he arrived to Seattle Washington to propose to Vanessa. His flight came in so late that night that we had all gone to bed. The hotel was full from convention …
Casandra Miska
I remember in the winter of 2022, Healthcare Department had a Gala in the Warwick Lounge. Shane was so excited to tell us that Vanessa was wearing the cocktail dress that she wore …
Chivonne
When we served at the branch in Mexico City, I was learning to play the song “Light In A Darkened World” on the piano. Shane listened one evening and recommended I break up the eb …
Nessy
This week Mom was sharing a funny memory of Shane that brought smiles to our faces. Mom and Shane were doing the local walk for MS. May your good memories bring you peace and …
Erin DiBacco
Years ago we had the joy of meeting Shane here in the Central America Branch. In our family, you all hold a very special place because Shane very lovingly cared for the Nahuatl …
Emmanuel and Montserrat Ramirez
Milton and my brother have good memories with Shane since Guatemala and I will always remember him because he was always so kind with everyone. Just a lovely man!
Abi and Milton Mykiwka
To my greatest friend…may we make more memories in the New World.
Jhonny Sanchez
I can’t help but think back on all the good times I had with Shane. From being his roommate, to seeing him become absolutely smitten by you, to seeing you two get married. You …
Greg
Shane had the talent to work through complex matters in a way that honored everyone, as he loved to ask for different viewpoints. Shane was one of Jehovah’s faithful friends and …
HCD Central Europe
Shane and Vanessa took me with them in field service as I was in my 20s then. In Virginia, the roads are narrow, windy and you have a higher speed limit. No matter these …
Leah Lee
Greg showed me pictures of the night crew days: Shane, Micah and Greg, and many early 20’s young and skinny kids! They look so happy to serve Jehovah. It was so beautiful and I am …
Mai
Shane was a man with many beautiful qualities. I treasured the moments we shared while we worked together in the medical department on the Central America branch, and my husband …
Esther and Ricardo
I remember talking to Shane and Vanessa over Skype when we were arranging the transfer to Warwick. Shane and Vanessa were excited/nervous but were a joy to work with. It was so …
Grant Kildahl
I remember when we were at a gathering and you talked about your time at the Central America Branch and getting tacos after meeting and after service. Shane said your money really …
Jabin & Daniela Rogers
Shane was a special. He was a remarkable person, loved and respected by everyone. His exceptional kindness, warmth and humility made you love him. The camping trip is postponed …
Christia and Gary
The memorial talk was so good to hear details about Shane’s kindness and compassion, that made him so beloved. Our last contact was him reaching out to see how healthcare for …
Nick Ahladis
I have may fond memories working with Shane in the 117 Building Services. He was serious about the truth and his Bethel assignment. Yet he was cheerful and helpful, and he was …
Owen Freedland
Shane helped my son Kelton see that service is fun and serious, when he needed to see that serving Jehovah is good
Denise Walker Johnson
Shane is loved not only for his technical skills, but because of his faith and love for the brotherhood.
Lalo Lavin
I will never forget Shane telling Estevan and I how he loved Vanessa, his wife more and more every year. A love like that is worth more than all the money or possessions in the …
Serena
“You will safeguard those who fully lean on You; You will give them continuous peace, Because it is in you that they trust.” Isaiah 26:3
Marc and Eulah Carter
Shane’s wonderful qualities reflected those of our Creator. This contributed to strong freindships and enjoyable projects.
Chris Chobot
I remember that when he wanted to learn about some new thing, he bought books. His interest were many. I personally would love his book collection (at least access to it). And I …
Leah Lee
When we came for our Gilead intro days to Warwick, you both welcomes us so warmly at the firepit and we had such a good time getting to know you. We can’t wait to get to know you …
Jurgen and Janine Mastop, Netherlands Branch
I remember how much I looked forward to giving Shane rides to meeting and field service. One time, the fabric on the roof of my car unglued and started hanging a bit. I had plans …
Leo Vargas
Shane was always concerned about everyone else. Always asked “how are you, how can I help you? when I entered the room.” He was the sweetest man.
Kelsey Pellicone
Duetoronomy 15:16 “You must be nothing but joyful”. I think Shane used that as excuse to eat extra pizza in Matagalpa, because was a cheeky monkey. Sam has a memory of Shane …
Sam and Lamby
Our favorite memory of Shane will be seeing him receive us at the door! He always gave the best hugs and such a warm welcome.
Leslie and Carmen Dominguez
Both of you have been outstanding examples of faithfulness to Jehovah and taught us humilty. A beautiful memory of Shane is that there was no Shane without Vanessa; together a …
Danais and Chris Melendez
My fondest memory of Shane was actually the day of our wedding! I was so nervous and stressed out right before the ceremony. All I remember is Shane in the entrance. He looked at …
Sebastian and Ainoa
I had the opportunity to work with Shane in his role as the Hub contact for Global Health Care. I always appreciated how thorough and knowledgeable he was, but above all else how …
Tracey and April Figliski
Throughout his nearly 27 years of full-time service, Shane was known to our brotherhood as a warm-hearted brother, as well as an excellent shepherd who loyally supported God’s …
US Branch Committee
Shane was so kind to us, saying we were on the same team because of the work. We look forward for all to welcome him back.
Alphonse and Maria
Shane was a remarkable person, loved and respected by everyone. His exceptional kindness, warmth and humility made him loved. Our camping trip is postponed only briefly, and now …
Christian and Gary
My husband and I did have the privilege to interact with Shane a couple times. Each time we thought: What a Christ-like brother he is. Very kind and very approachable. When …
Rassmia and Robert Monkiewicz
We have very beautiful memories of you both. We remember that occasion when we talked about what the perfect height would be in the new world. Shane said we are the imperfect …
Luis and Rut Mendoza
A heart touching moment was when Shane called me to ask a work question, but also took the time to say thank you for my hard work in caring for others. It meant the world to me …
Chivonne Carey
Uros Kolar made Shane a get-well sign with just two emojis to cheer him up in the hospital. He absolutely loved it. They had an ongoing, inside joke about the Slovenian word for …
Nessy
Shane really made a great impact on me and I really enjoyed seeing his smile when he worked so hard to get better. I especially enjoyed when he would say “I’m sorry I know that’s …
Yvette from Helen Hayes PT
It was an honor and pleasure to have know and worked with Shane at Helen Hayes. I will miss his kindness and compassion. Despite his circumstances, he would always ask me “What’s …
Laurel from Helen Hayes
I worked with Shane at Helen Hayes Hospital day shift. It was my job to wake him up in the morning. Although he wouldn’t want to get up, as soon as he heard coffee and breakfast …
Christine C RN at Helen Hayes
I remember sharing a bag of Jalepeño chips with Shane and having a deep conversation about how they make chips. Then later our stomachs hurting from eating too many but saying it …
Chivonne
We hold on to the last memory we had with Shane “talking shop” eating spicy queso Popcorners and we look forward to continuing that in the new world when he is back. (Not sure if …
Alex and Susy Perez
Really miss our conversations, and not just about basketball :). Even when he was in the hospital and didn’t feel his best, I was amazed at how much he still wanted to exert …
Andrew and Katie
Shane watched the Good News According to Jesus drama and saw the astrologers. He said they looked gnarly.
Tori Cumella
One of the qualities of Shane that I really loved was how even though he was so, so tall, it wasn’t an excuse to get to know the little ones. I would always see him kneel down and …
Johnny Becerra
I will always remember playing Brass Birmingham with you. What a blast! It was such a great group, so many laughs and tasty snacks all evening. That holds the record for the most …
Aaron Jeronimus
We toured the Gilead Classrooms after a Graduation. In the hallway there was a long display on the wall of Bible Land artifacts. The space was crowded and very hot. As we got …
Nessy
One meeting night, I told Shane that my knee was hurting. He left the Kingdom Hall and drove to the pharmacy to buy Aspercreme. He brought it back to the meeting for me.
Hermana Negrita
Shane loved sailing and everything to do with it. He had a phase where he liked to say “Don’t cross my rode” meaning ‘don’t cross my anchor line,’ because it can sink a boat it …
Nessy
Shane loved the ground floor room at B-4. He liked the view of the garden between the B and D residence and the sound of the chipping sparrows.
Nessy
So thankful for all the enjoyable times we had together. We remember how much he enjoyed being out in nature and we look forward to future hikes together in paradise.
Doug and Brandy
Shane loved a deep fryer that I had. He particularly liked that it was named the Gran Pappy.
Natasha Perry "Cous"
One of our favorite memories when Shane and Vanessa ‘photobombed’ our photoshoot during the pandemic. We were happy to share a beautiful setting with you both, and I found the …
Rob and Cherise Knoll
A special memory for us was a few years ago when we lived on the same floor. We had a Floor Party on a Monday after Watchtower Study. We’re convinced that some of the best tacos …
Rob and Sara Vega
My memories of Shane are simple and good. For example, bumping into you on the trails and noting that you, too, tucked your trousers in to your socks. It made me feel less …
Dan Bell
I don’t like being called “Meli” (generally), but Shane would always welcome me to meeting with arms wide open, a huge smile, and “Meelllliiii”. His kindness, and warmth and …
Melissa
When we think of Shane, we think of someone who is a real gift. He was smart and could solve problems, but he always put people and their feelings first. not many people can be …
The Manzanares
In Central America Bethel we would dress up once a month for Bow Tie Friday!
Leslie and Levi Ballard
I work with HCD Colombia and had the privilege of working with Shane. We loved Shane very much and he taught us so much with his way of treating us and helping us.
Analisa Sandoval Colombia
Having worked with Shane a little bit, I, Betty, have always appreciated his kind and reasonable demeanor, along with a good sense of humor. Such a beloved brother!
Betty and Crystal Georges
Vanessa, you were always protective of your “Shaney”! Remember in Nicaragua the time that tiny scorpion in his shoe stung him and you ran after it to kill it. “He bit my Shaney!” …
Kristina
When we were serving with Shane and Vanessa in Nicaragua we stayed at their house. There was the usual bar of soap to wash hands in their bathroom except it was on it’s last leg, …
Jameel and Tina
Even though you were pulled out half way through pioneer school in Matagalpa in 2008, it was lovely meeting you then…visiting you in San Jose de los Remates…when you left NIca, I …
Nicole and Kyle Searcy
We were visiting Bryan and Bethy Euler in Port Orchard, Washington. Shane had been in the backyard and he came in the house laughing. A little girl from the congregation was …
Nessy
Shane enjoyed service in Kemerer, Wyoming when they did 3 months of unassigned territory. Our congregation enjoyed his talks and he enjoyed giving them.
Tina and Buddy Bubb
I remember when I was out of a job, I was discouraged that I was not a valuable community member. Shane encouraged me that I could volunteer as a docent at the library in …
Leah Lee
Shane was a beautiful person with a laugh and smile so hard to forget.
Maryalice
Shane and I had just gotten engaged at Gas Works Park in Seattle Washington after the Saturday program at the Tacoma District Convention. Afterwards, Dad and Mom invited us and …
Nessy
I think of the early days of Brooklyn Bethel. I remember Shane with a walkie talkie around his wrist, a big smile. He worked with Standish Cleaning, and I worked with a different …
Bram Siegel
I went with Shane to a convention when we were single serving in Brooklyn Bethel. I saw a girl I really wanted to talk to but I was intimidated. Shane said, “Dude, it’s not hard.” …
Anonymous-Contributed At Shane's Memorial
Shane was a good man. He trained me in many aspects of cleaning in Standish Cleaning back in 2000. My approach to what I thought was menial work was quickly and righteously …
Rick Carranza
It was a joy working with Shane on the Cleaning Crew at the Standish. His positive attitude contributed greatly to the spirit of the crew.
Jason and Liliana Pannell
Shane was switched to my congregation in Marble Hill, NY. He asked, “Bro, am I gonna stand out as the only big tall white guy?” I said, “No, you’ll be fine. But yea, you’ll be the …
Ernie Martinez
We remember Shane in Brooklyn Bethel–he was a young brother then who showed himself to be warm, friendly, and always approachable. Those qualities carried him through his life so …
Anonymous
Shane was a truly spiritual man who gave of himself to help others. We know in the Publishing Committee Office because he was so helpful to us in the work he did for us and for …
Rick Rittenbach