David W. Shandy

1938 - 2015

At the age of 76, David "Capt. Dave" Wesley Shandy passed away at his home in Ninilchik, Alaska, of a sudden heart attack on Jan. 9, 2015. Dave was born on June 15, 1938, in Colorado Springs, Colo., to Wesley and Lina-May Shandy. He was one of four brothers, Jimmy, John and Darrel, who grew up together. The story of their time together was that of hunting, fishing and an adventurous country boy lifestyle. David served abroad in the army, instilling in him a deep respect for those serving our country in uniform. Out of the service, Dave became a truck driving man for many years before finding his true calling that he was best known for. For the last 20 or so years, you could find Dave plying the waters of Deep Creek, Alaska, on the hunt for halibut and other denizens of the deep aboard the "Virginia Lee." Through those years as a charter boat captain, Dave was able to touch the lives of so many people and share his infectious personality. Whiskey sipin', guitar pickin', singing songs by the camp fire and sinfully glutinous fish feeds where the way he preferred to spend his time with those close to him. He was an unceremonious man and was often quoted saying, "My tombstone shall read: The wind blew, the s**t flew, and this is what's left of the Shandy crew." In addition to spending much of his time at the local American Legion Hall, Capt. Dave served as in various officer positions, including post commander. Through the organization he and his wife of 35 years, Jeanie, shared their joy in life with the small community and the entire state. David is survived by a large family, including wife, "Jeanie"; siblings; children; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren, who will always remember the great times that followed Dave where ever he went. A celebration of life will be held at the American Legion Post #18 in Ninilchik, Alaska, at 2 p.m. on Jan. 24, 2015, following a brief ceremony at the Ninilchik Cemetery. Friends and loved ones may contact his widow, Jean, or his son, Anthony, to express their condolences. In keeping with his wishes, "you can keep those damn flowers," and donations will be accepted at the American Legion Post #18 in his honor. "There goes the life of the party."