Richard "Dick" Shake
Jun 4, 1947 -
Jun 23, 2023
Bill and Mary's firstborn and only son, Richard Wayne "Dick" Shake, passed on June 23, 2023, much too young for his 76 years. He was born in Pueblo, Colo., on June 4, 1947, and soon thereafter the three moved to Anchorage, Alaska, where Bill had secured work with the Alaska Railroad. Dick grew up on Government Hill where the family lived in one of the many Quonset huts that were erected there during WWII. There was not much room for a family of seven, but the tight quarters allowed for close family relationships for the rest of his life. After graduating from East High in 1966, Dick enlisted in the Marine Corps and served two tours overseas in Vietnam. When he returned home, Dick studied to become a journeyman PBX installer/repairman and spent the next 27 years with the Anchorage Telephone Utility.
An avid fisherman, Dick spent time in and around the Susitna River drainage and in Southwest Alaska - particularly at Igiugig and in the Kvichak River. He would spend his evenings tying flies for his next fishing adventure. Dick also built several fly poles for his friends and relatives.
Never without a best friend and companion, Dick always owned a dog - rather, his dogs owned him. His favorite breed, Airedale, was also a favorite of his grandfather and namesake. Dick can rest in peace that his last buddy "Mac" will be well cared for by his sister Linda.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Mary Shake. He is survived by four sisters, Linda Phillips of Chandler, Ariz., Lois Warren of Ramsey, Minn., Kate (Larry) Yates of Havertown, Pa., and Susan (Larry) Garner of Anchorage; and nine nieces and nephews.
Richard was cremated. His ashes will be spread on Mt. Susitna with his mom and dad, and interred at the Fort Richardson National Cemetery. Semper Fi, Dick.
Family and friends are invited to attend an event honoring Dick's memory at the American Legion Jack Henry Post l, 840 Fireweed Lane in Anchorage, on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, from 4-7 p.m. Please attend if you can.
