Don Shane, a former Channel 7 (WXYZ TV) sportscaster, died on Friday, February 24, 2023, at the age of 70, at his California residence. His wife, Mona, verified the news on Saturday, alongside Diana Lewis, another WXYZ seasoned news presenter, to recall and pay homage to the late sports reporter. Shane began his more than three-decade tenure as a reporter for Channel 4 in Detroit in the early 1980s. Following brief stops in Chicago and Boston, he joined Channel 7 in 1989 and quickly rose to prominence as a top sports reporter, covering many historic sporting events.
He resigned at the age of 60 in February 2012 to spend more time with his family. He said as he was exiting WXYZ TV:
“I’ve been extremely fortunate. The things I’ve seen and done have far surpassed my hopes.”
He died encircled by his wife, Mona, and their children, Justin and Lindsay.
“The spirit of that WXYZ TV Detroit sports section is all gone,” say netizens of Don Shane’s death.
People were stunned to learn of the death of the Channel 7 sportscaster. They used social media to share their grief and lament his death. They described him as a gifted, amazing, and one-of-a-kind individual. Shane was praised by Twitterati as the “greatest in the industry” for his efforts over the years.
James Honeycutt, @jamesxxcc, one user, posted an artwork in his tribute with the message:
“Art tribute to one of Detroit’s best sports broadcasters! Don Shane @wyzdetroit, rest in peace.”
Many of Shane’s old coworkers and peers attended the memorial service for the renowned sports pundit. Those who had the chance to interact with him said he was a wonderful instructor and thanked him for the teachings he taught them. Following are some Social reactions to Don Shane’s death:
We lost Don Shane today. Terribly sad. 70. Donny worked at both Channel 4 and 7 Detroit; long run at WXYZ until retirement in 2012. Also in Boston / Chicago. I spent a lot of time on the road with Donny. I’ll just use HIS old line on air, “Why can’t WE… get guys like THAT!” pic.twitter.com/SH8ZynmMzp
— Parker andTheMan (@parkerandtheman) February 25, 2023
Rest in peace Don Shane. I absolutely loved working with you. Will never forget our week in Chicago before Bears and Patriots. We had so many laughs in the #WBZ sports office during the great 80’s. pic.twitter.com/8i1YgfHyYm
— Alice Cook (@alicemcook) February 25, 2023
Don Shane relocated to Arizona after retiring to spend time with his family, and he spent his final years in California.
WXZY paid a heartfelt homage to their former host on their website, recalling his tenure and working with him. Professional athletes and trainers described him as hardworking and well-respected. They emphasized his useful character and bright intellect, saying:
“He was a supporter of worthwhile causes and mentored scores of student volunteers in the sports section over the years, many of whom went on to achieve their own professional goals and objectives in the industry.”
Don Shane’s family has yet to reveal the reason for his mortality. There were rumors that he was unwell for some time after retiring, but the nature of his sickness is unknown. A few unverified reports say the sportscaster had Parkinson’s disease and confusion at an early age. His wife of 38 years, Mona, as well as his two daughters and grandkids, leave him.
