Selwyn P. Shaw's Obituary
Decatur-Selwyn Shaw, 89, of Decatur, passed away Friday, December 19, 2014 at McKinley Court in Decatur.
Selwyn was born February 7, 1925, in Quincy, Illinois, the son of Page and Cyrena (Wilcox) Shaw. He grew up in Burton, moved to East Peoria and later began work there with Caterpillar. He proudly served his country in the Army Air Corps during World War II, flying a B-26 with 397th Bomb Group (M) as a young 1st Lieutenant at 19. Upon return to civilian life he married Margaret April 22, 1946 in Kansas City, Kansas and returned to work with Caterpillar serving for forty-seven years with the company and at the same time completed his degree in engineering (summa cum laude) from Bradley University.
Moving a few years later to Maroa he was busy as a Cub and Scout Leader, Member of the Masonic Lodge, VFW, and Moose Lodge. He spent a few years in Toronto, Canada with Caterpillar as a Department Manager. His family became multi-national when both his son and daughter married Canadians. Around this time still enjoying flying, Selwyn took up soaring.
Selwyn is survived by his daughter Selene Ibey and husband Robert of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, son Selwyn Jr. and wife Joanne of Brampton, Ontario, Canada, grandsons Howard Downey and wife Andrea of Airdrie, Alberta, Shawn Downey and wife Terri of Calgary, Alberta, and Tyler Page and wife Rebecca of Brampton, Ontario, great-grandchildren Mason and Alyssa of Calgary, Alberta, and Ryan of Brampton, Alberta, “almost family” Linda Watson of Columbus, Missouri, former son-in-law Bob Downey of Nanaimo, British Columbia, and various nieces and nephews.
Loving thoughts go out to his wonderful friend and confidante Sharon Coffman who has been there for Selwyn and the family.
Selwyn was preceded in death by his parents, wife of fifty-six years, brother Daryl Shaw, and sister Mary Polson.
Honoring Selwyn’s wishes cremation services will be provided by Graceland/Fairlawn Crematory. Private inurnment will be in the Star of Hope Mausoleum at Graceland Cemetery.
The family of Selwyn Shaw is being served by the Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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