Robert M. Shane

Robert M. Shane, 90, of Berrien Springs, passed away peacefully at his home on July 3, 2021.

Robert was born Oct. 15, 1930, in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., to Tracy and Helen (Pratt) Shane. The family moved to Watervliet in 1934 where he resided until he married Lou Ann Higbee on Feb. 13, 1960. They were married for 62 years and had two children.

Robert proudly served in the US Navy 1950-1955. He was a veteran of the Korean War and served over three years of sea duty aboard the destroyer U.S.S. Gatling. He achieved the rank of 1st Class Petty Officer and had many adventures, including crossing the equator where he was inducted into the Ancient Order of the Deep as a “Trusty Shellback”, and transiting both the Panama and Suez Canals during the Gatling’s round-the-world voyage in 1953.

Robert worked for Bendix and Shepherd Products as an engineer. He received multiple patents for his work. He enjoyed solving problems and inventing solutions for any household need. He was a self-taught artist and had a passion for creating beautiful sculptures. He was a quiet man with a sly sense of humor and a kind heart. He had a deep faith in God and a generous nature and will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Lou Ann; son, Jason (Tracy Chandler) Shane; daughter, Raeann (Ronald Knoblock) Shane; grandchildren, Erik and Samantha Smith; sisters, Judy Engel and Mary Dorr; brother-in-law, James Higbee; and 16 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, George and Philips Shane; sister, Ella Jean Elliott; nephews: David Elliott, Steve Engel, and Kalvin Higbee.

Visitation will be 1-2 p.m. Friday, July 9, at Allred Funeral Home, Berrien Springs, followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m. Messages may be left at www.allredfuneralhome.com. Memorials to Disabled American Veterans.