William Shannon Hemphill

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William "Shane" Shannon Hemphill, born on September 22, 1963, in Red Wing, Minnesota.
He passed away on April 20, 2025, surrounded by family at his bedside, leaving behind a lasting legacy of love, strength, and a life well-lived.
Shane was a hardworking and dedicated man whose life centered around building things and fixing what needed fixing. After a brief time in the U.S. Coast Guard, Shane found his passion in working with his hands. He spent many years building homes, welding at Fraser Shipyards and XL Specialized Trailers in Iowa and working as a mechanic on semi-trailers at Jeff Foster Trucking. He also roofed many homes in the Northland and worked on low-income housing projects, installing insulation and windows to help others.
After his father's passing, Shane lived with his mother, Paulette Marie Fairbanks, in Gordon, Wisconsin, where he became her devoted companion and provided the care and supervision she needed. When his mother decided to move to senior living in Superior, Wisconsin, Shane also relocated to Superior to continue being there for her.
Shane was a full-patch member of the Lost Race biker club, enjoying countless rides on his 1982 Harley Ultra Glide along local country roads. His life was marked by his strong community, his love for the open road, and his fierce loyalty to his brothers in the club. Shane's passion for music was just as strong-he was an avid listener of Hank Williams Jr., Willie Nelson, and Johnny Cash. Music, like his love for life, was a cornerstone of his spirit, and he shared his love for it with all who knew him.
Shane was a man with a big heart, known for his humor, love of storytelling, and deep affection for his family. He was always happy to share his experiences and skills with anyone who would listen. Whether it was teaching his children and grandchildren about mechanics, construction, or life, he always made sure to pass along what he knew.
Shane is survived by his mother, Paulette Marie Fairbanks, of Boynton Beach, Florida, and his children: Christopher Allen Hemphill, Shane William Hemphill, Alyshia May Hemphill, and Patrick Allen Honkanen (his stepchild). He was with his longtime companion, Cathy Ruby, for 23 years, building a life full of memories. Shane was a father figure to Cathy's children, Brianna and her son Brayden, and cherished his role in their lives. Shane was previously married to Kimberly Ann Hemphill, and while they had been separated for many years, they remained friends.
Shane is also survived by his grandchildren: Aden Miles Fegraeus, Matthew John Fegraeus, Aunnica May Fegraeus, Ava Marie Fegraeus; and Cathy's grandson Brayden. Also remembered is Aryanna May Fegraeus (deceased).
He is further survived by his siblings: Kelly Rae Fairbanks Lord, Lynn Marie Levens (Tim), Neil Curtis Fairbanks (Wendy), Jacqueline Ann Crowley, Tracey Lee Fairbanks, and Penny Louise Patterson (Troy), along with many nieces and nephews.
Shane was preceded in death by his biological father, William R. Hemphill, and his stepfather, Neil Curtis Fairbanks Sr.
A Celebration of Life is being planned, and the date will be announced in due course.
In addition, friends and family are invited to post on Shane's Facebook page, which the family intends to keep open for the foreseeable future.
William "Shane" Shannon Hemphill will be remembered for his love of life, his generosity, and his deep affection for those close to him. He touched the lives of so many, and those blessed to know him will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
To leave a condolence or sign the guestbook, please visit www.lenroot-maetzold.com.