Shad Ramsey, 72, of Sun City Center, FL passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 3, 2015 at the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa, FL.
Shad was born in Grand Island, Nebraska and grew up in Gig Harbor (Everett), WA where he spent time fishing the waters in and around Washington State. He enjoyed anything having to do with nature and the water. He spent many hours fishing boating, whale watching, and loving the sea life. He also enjoyed bird watching and photography. When he moved to Pine Island, FL he took pictures of the birds in that area and put together his own bird book. While living in Tennessee, he and his wife, Alice, would travel the windy mountain roads of the Smoky Mountains and they would stop to take in the beautiful scenic overlooks along the way. They enjoyed the variety of wildlife that would walk through their backyard in Tennessee on a daily basis.
Shad served in the Air Force as an airplane mechanic and then retired from civil service working as an electrician for the Navy on aircraft carriers. He was an active member of the Elks Lodge in Pine Island. He volunteered in the community and helped those in the neighborhood with handyman duties. Shad was the first to volunteer and help out whenever needed. He was a volunteer at the animal welfare league in Port Charlotte, FL where he would take therapy dogs to local nursing homes to interact with the residents and provide them with the attention and love that only animals can bring.
Shad was diagnosed with ALS in October 2011 and, in 2014, was cared for at home by Paula Elder. Paula came daily and quickly became a part of the family. Shad enjoyed telling his stories and teasing Paula, along with others, whenever possible.
Shad is survived by his wife, Alice; a brother, three step daughters; three step granddaughters and three step grandsons.
Funeral services with military honors will be presented at 1:00 PM on Monday, March, 16, 2015 at Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Avenue, Bushnell 33513.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Florida Chapter of the ALS Association at The ALS Association Florida Chapter, 3242 Parkside Center Circle, Tampa, FL 33619.
My sincerest condolences to all of Shads family and friends. While I never met Shad, I felt like I knew him from the many fond stories I heard from Tina. God bless you all.
Tina, I’m so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Your love for him was clearly stated in the beautiful words you shared about him. Will pray that you and your family will find peace knowing he is now free.
Blessings on you all, Donna
Tina, Alice and Family: I am so sorry to hear of Shad’s passing. He fought the good fight and now can rest. You and your family took the very best care of him you could. It was hard but you did it. Prayers and hugs to you and yours. Take care of yourselves now. Condolences to the family.
I remember Shad as that tall guy who seemed shy but always had a smile. Living on the water on Pine Island with his big beautiful boat moored outside, he seemed to be in Heaven. Now he really is.
Shad, so many stories from high school and grade school. But you always seemed to have a handle on things. Until we meet again classmate, smooth sailing and God Bless,
Jerry, class of “60”
So sorry for your loss,Alice,I never met you,but I can tell you ,one of the most important people in my life was Shad.We worked together on Enterprise back in 79,and were good friends well into the 80’s.I left to go after a career on the railroad,which I achieved.I cannot tell you how much I owe to Shad for all his wisdom & help to me and my career so many years ago.It was my priveledge & pleasure to know him,he is sorely missed,Duane