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BORN
1923
DIED
2018
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Richard SHANKS Obituary
SHANKS,
Richard
Edward
"Dick"
Dick Shanks, 95, beloved husband, father, grand-father, great-grandfather and friend, went home to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, dying peacefully in his sleep, Wednesday, April 25, 2018. He was born in Davenport, Washington in 1923, to Alpha and Mattie Shanks, attended Davenport High School and Business College in California. Dick was predeceased by his parents; two brothers, a son, grandson, and great-grandson. He is survived by his cherished wife of 33 years, Lillian (Bowker) Shanks; three daughters, Nancy (Ron) Canyon, Loretta (Jerry) Etchison, and Michelle (Thad) Detillion; and a son Michael (Sharon) Shanks; five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Dick Shanks was a WWII Navy Pilot and the founder and president of five different businesses over his lifetime, including Industrial Instrument Supply, Automation Products, Pantrol, Fasteners, Able Label. As a community member, he served as the President of the Spokane Central Lions Club from 1968-1969 and helped many struggling to find work. He was the dedicated founder and lay minister for Able Ministries, making several trips to Ghana, West Africa. Beginning in 2000, he started and set up Good News Centers, where the Gospel of Jesus Christ was shared, and received by millions. Dick Shanks was known for his giving nature. He prayed with people when in crisis and dropped off boxes of food at the holidays to families in need. Often a stranger was invited to dinner at Thanksgiving. He was a playful trickster and fondly nicknamed "Funny Grandpa" by his grandchildren. He played Santa Claus at Christmas and sang Happy Birthday off-key at celebrations. He invented a toy, The Twist & Twirl, and made a record of the moon launch: Apollo 11. Handing out two dollar bills torn from a pad was one of his favorite offerings. His passion was handing out packets of Grandma's Cookies at churches, fire stations, and the mission, with the message of Salvation. Special thanks to his caregivers Julie Peterson, Patty Wolf, Joy Jasso, Patty Olson, Izzy Gust, Shelbie McKenzie, Judy Bolinger, and Sarah Schelin. A Celebration of Dick's life will be held on May 5, at 1 pm, at Valley Fourth Memorial Church, 2303 S. Bowdish, Spokane Valley, WA 99206. Dick's favorite color was red. If you would like to wear red in his honor please feel free to do so. In lieu of flowers if you would like to send a donation please send to Able Ministries, 312 N. Mullan Road, Spokane Valley 99206.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard SHANKS
That Guy
November 16, 2024
The are not enough words to effectively convey what an amazing man Dick was. I think of him daily, and cherish the memories that I hold dear. He modeled kindness, love, compassion , generosity, and integrity, and he did so naturally. He was a humble and gracious man, who changed many lives for the better, just by virtue of who he was.
May 2, 2018
Thank you for your service to our country. Rest In Peace.
Terri Givens
May 1, 2018
Dick Shanks (always known to me as "Mr. Shanks) will always have a fond place in my heart. He was a part of my life from the time my dad, Roy Givens, first joined Industrial Instrument Supply, to Fasteners, then working together with my dad to start Pantrol. He was like a part of the family, and I will always remember his kind words at my parents' funerals. He was a great man who saw the best in everyone, and never looked down on anyone. Sending my love and condolences to Lil and family.
Art Coffey
April 30, 2018
Dick was the most prayerful, evangelical and giving man I have ever met. He loved the Lord, wanted everyone to know Jesus and salvation. He finished strong! Jesus, thank you for Dick and what he taught me.
April 29, 2018
I loved this man, he was my boss, my friend and my savior. Accept him Lord and stay by his side. He might tell you a story or two.
April 29, 2018
Thank you for your service to our country. Rest In Peace.
Kelly and Matt Veritiv Express
April 29, 2018
Dick was one of our best customers at Veritiv Express/Paper Plus. We will miss his fun jokes and ever present smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
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