Search

Zane Grey Shank, 98

Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 7:42 AM

By Arvin Hawkins

Zane Grey Shank, 98, of Canton, Georgia, and formerly of Lawrenceville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Zane Grey Shank, 98, of Canton, Georgia, and formerly of Lawrenceville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on June 30, 1927, in Lawrenceville, Illinois, Zane lived a life marked by hard work, service, and devotion to those he loved. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, he carried the values of honor, discipline, and perseverance with him throughout his life.

After his time in the Navy, Zane devoted his career to the oil refinery industry, where his work took him all over the world. From the fields of Guatemala and the shores of Trinidad to the landscapes of Sweden and Wales, and across many parts of the United States, Zane built a life defined by dedication and integrity.

He was also a gifted athlete who once played semi-professional baseball and remained a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs—celebrating every victory and standing faithful through every loss.

Zane is survived by his beloved wife of 75 years, Dixie Jean Ford Shank, of Canton, Georgia; his daughter, Margaret Sue Kerr (Steven) of Canton, Georgia; one granddaughter, Kristy Lynn Dye; and one great-grandson, Benjamin Ryan Smith, who brought him great joy in his later years.

He was preceded in death by his brothers William Dale Shank, Donald Allison Shank, Wayne Mickey Shank, and his sister Naomi Pauline Shank.

Funeral services will be Monday, October 20, 2025, 1:00 p.m. at Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, Illinois.  Visitation will be 11:00 a.m. until the service hour of 1:00 p.m.  Burial will be in Lawrenceville City Cemetery.

Zane lived his life with quiet strength, an honest spirit, and a steadfast love for family, country, and the work he believed in. His memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.