Don Shane, a former sportscaster for WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) in Detroit, passed away on February 24, 2023, at the age of 70. He was at his home in California, surrounded by his wife Mona and his two children, Lindsay and Justin. His death came as a shock to many of his fans and colleagues, who remembered him as a talented, passionate, and professional journalist who covered some of the most memorable moments in sports history. But what was Don Shane’s cause of death? And what was his life like before he retired from his long and successful career? In this article, we will try to answer these questions and pay tribute to the legacy of Don Shane.
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A Glorious Career in Sports Journalism
Don Shane started his career in the early 1980s in Detroit, working as a sports anchor for Channel 4. He then moved to Chicago and Boston, where he continued to hone his skills and gain recognition. In 1989, he joined Channel 7, where he became one of the top sports anchors in the city. He covered major sports events such as the Stanley Cup, the NBA Finals, the Super Bowl, and the Olympics. He also interviewed some of the biggest names in sports, such as Michael Jordan, Barry Sanders, Steve Yzerman, and Joe Dumars.
Don Shane was known for his professionalism, enthusiasm, and charisma. He had a knack for storytelling and engaging with his audience. He was also respected by his peers and colleagues, who praised him for his mentorship and friendship. He won several awards for his work, including four Emmys and two Michigan Association of Broadcasters awards.
Don Shane retired from Channel 7 in February 2012, after more than two decades of service. He said he wanted to spend more time with his family and enjoy life. He also thanked his viewers for their support and loyalty over the years. He said: “I have been really blessed. The things I have been able to see and do have far exceeded my expectations.”
A Mysterious Illness and Death
Don Shane’s cause of death has not been officially revealed yet. His wife Mona did not mention it when she appeared on Channel 7 on Saturday, February 26, 2023, to honor her late husband. She was joined by Diana Lewis, another veteran news anchor who worked with Don for many years. They shared some of their memories and stories about Don, and expressed their gratitude for his life and legacy.
However, some sources have claimed that Don Shane had been sick for a while before his death. According to The Detroit News, Don Shane had been battling ill health for some time. Another source claimed that Don Shane had Parkinson’s disease and was in the early stage of dementia at the time of his retirement. However, these claims have not been verified or confirmed by any reputable sources.
A Lasting Impact on Detroit Sports
Don Shane’s death has saddened many people who admired him and followed him throughout his career. Many of them took to social media to express their condolences and pay tribute to him. They called him a legend, a icon, and a role model. They thanked him for his work and his contribution to Detroit sports.
Some of Don Shane’s former colleagues and friends also shared their thoughts and feelings about him. They said he was a great person, a great journalist, and a great mentor. They said they learned a lot from him and enjoyed working with him. They said they will miss him dearly.
Don Shane left behind a legacy that will not be forgotten by anyone who loves sports and journalism. He was one of the best in the business, and he made an impact on many lives. He will always be remembered as a legendary sportscaster who brought joy and excitement to millions of viewers.
