Shane Cassavant

1974 - 2023

Shane Cassavant, 49, tragically passed away on October 12, 2023 due to injuries he sustained after being hit by a motor vehicle while working.

Shane was born on April 17, 1974 in Pittsfield, MA. He spent the majority of his life living in Pittsfield prior to moving to Lanesborough. He moved to Lanesborough to have the workshop of his dreams in his own front yard. Shane was a 1992 graduate of Pittsfield High School. The only thing more brilliant than Shane's blue eyes was his mind. Shane was inquisitive all of his life and continued to learn through life experiences. By trade, Shane was a woodworker. Many peoples' homes and businesses throughout Western Mass and beyond have benefited from Shane's talent. Whether it was custom made cabinets, furniture, toys, or decorations, Shane was able to make or fix anything.

Shane had many talents and interests in addition to woodworking. As a young child, Shane excelled at archery. He also had an interest in fishing which became his passion as he grew older. One of Shane's favorite past times was to be on his boat fishing at the lake, river or ocean. Although Shane liked fishing, he gained more enjoyment by being able to provide that experience to others. In addition to fishing, Shane tested the limits while he was on his ATVs, motorcycle, snowmobile or snowboard.

Shane greeted everyone with his huge smile, but his heart was bigger than his smile. He was generous with his time and knowledge. Shane was willing and able to help out any friend or family member who contacted him. He was interested in others and wanted to support them in any way that he could. Shane was not one to sit for long before he had his next idea that he wanted to pursue. He had a work ethic like no other and made sure everything that he did was done to his idea of perfection.

Shane leaves behind his father, James, with whom he loved to fish. He leaves his sister, Jaime, with whom he enjoyed spending holidays and vacations. He leaves his nephew, Darryn, with whom he shared many of the same interests, especially working with 3D printers. He leaves his paternal grandmother, several aunts, uncles and cousins. Shane also leaves countless friends and his companion. Shane left his cat, Chubs, who was his pride and joy. Chubs passed away on October 16, 2023 due to diabetes. Chubs had a long and happy life with Shane.

Shane was predeceased by several family members who had a profound impact on his life. His mother, Marcia Cassavant, with whom he enjoyed sharing stories of his adventures. His Granny, Dorothy DiOrio, who he spent time with at least weekly just enjoying one another's company. Shane was also one of Granny's daily caregivers in her final months and days. His Gramp, Raymond DiOrio, who taught Shane many things as a child and then Shane taught him as he became older. Shane's uncle, Richard DiOrio, who spent time encouraging and supporting Shane's hobbies as a child and an adult.

Calling hours will be held at Dery Funeral Home, 54 Bradford St, Pittsfield, MA on October 25, 2023 from 4-8pm. Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Marcia Cassavant Scholarship which will be eventually amended to include Shane.