William Kenneth Shanks

Submitted by Dawalt Funeral Home

William Kenneth Shanks, age 98, passed away peacefully at his Salem home. A third-generation resident of Salem, Ken’s life was a testament to the values of service and lifelong learning.

Early Life and Military Service

Born August 11, 1927, to George Clarke and Shirley Spence (Taylor) Shanks, Ken was raised as a dedicated and active member of the Salem community. An Eagle Scout who stayed active in the organization as an adult, he balanced his time at the Salem High School between his studies, track meets, and musical performances in the marching band and orchestra.

After his high school graduation in 1945 and driven by a deep sense of patriotism and adventure, Ken enlisted in the United States Navy. He served four years of active duty, spent primarily aboard the minesweeper USS Endicott in the Pacific theater.

Career and Marriage

Following his honorable discharge, Ken attended DePauw University, where he earned degrees in U.S. History and English. His love of these subjects led him to a career in public education. It was during his teaching tenure in Ohio that he met his future wife, Wilma Josephine "Jo" Cooper. They were married in 1957 and returned to Salem to establish their home and begin a family. Ken taught in the Salem, Scottsburg, and Michigan City school systems before being drawn to a career with the federal government at the National Archives in Chicago.

A Legacy of Service

In retirement and back in Salem, Ken and Jo were inseparable. They shared a love for travel, antiquing, and genealogical research. However, Ken was perhaps best known for his tireless volunteerism. For over 20 years, he and Jo were fixtures at the Salem Indiana Public Library’s “Friends of the Library” store on the square and at the Washington County Humane Society. Ken’s altruism took other forms-tutoring adults working toward their GEDs and spending countless hours playing cards and games with residents in local care facilities and preparing their yearly taxes are just a few.

Family

Ken was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Jo; his parents; and his best friend and brother, Robert Taylor Shanks. He is survived by his four children: Philip C. Shanks, Julia K. (Shanks) Malone, Laura J. (Shanks) Hawks, and Stephen C. Shanks; his granddaughter, Hope Shanks; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who knew him simply as “Uncle Ken” and "Kenny."

A Life Well-Lived

Ken was a devoted husband, a calming presence, and the man who made our world brighter. A lifelong educator, he instilled in his children an intellectual curiosity that remains his lasting legacy. He filled our home and lives with the things he loved-literature, music, and the joy of summer vacations while he delighted us with his dry, brilliant wit. He was the heart of our family and we carry his memory and spirit with us.

The family requests that any memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society of Washington County at 204 W Joseph St, Salem IN 47167.

Arrangements made by Dawalt Funeral Home