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Portrait of Richard “Rick” Lee Shaw
In loving memory

Richard “Rick” Lee Shaw

October 17, 1959 – August 19, 2026
Lived 66 years
Brazil, Indiana
Life story

Richard “Rick” Shaw passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Union Hospital in Terre Haute, Indiana after courageously battling an extended illness.

Born on October 17, 1959, in Terre Haute, Indiana, Rick was the son of Joan (Linnabary) Shaw and Richard Shaw. He graduated from Staunton High School in 1978, where he was known as a standout basketball player.

At just 18, Rick began his lifelong career with Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 157. Over 47 dedicated years, he became a highly skilled welder, respected for his craftsmanship, work ethic, and loyalty to his trade. He retired in 2019, proud of the career he built and the friendships he made along the way.

Rick found joy in playing golf with his friends several times a week. He loved sharing the fact that he had not one — but two — hole‑in‑ones, a point he never missed an opportunity to mention. After retirement, he enjoyed spending time at the Brazil VFW and Legion with his girlfriend, Penny Harris. There, he made countless memories with friends and perfected his signature dance move, the “Shaw Shuffle,” which will be remembered with smiles for years to come.

Rick is survived by his daughter, Sunny (Shaw) Phipps, and son‑in‑law, Adam Phipps; his granddaughter, Piper Phipps; his sister, Teresa (Shaw) Reagin; his nephew, Brandon Shaw; his girlfriend, Penny Harris; and the mother of his daughter, Lori (Drake) Furrer.

The family extends a heartfelt thank‑you to Penny for her unwavering love, care, and support. And a special nod goes to Eric Trusler — who, as Rick would proudly remind him, has zero hole‑in‑ones.

Final care has been entrusted to French Funeral Home. Services will be held at Lawson‑Miller Chapel in Brazil, Indiana, on Thursday, August 27, 2026. Visitation will be from 4–7 p.m., with services beginning at 7 p.m., led by Jeff Buell and Pastor Brett King.

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The world Richard knew

Family milestones in gold, history for context

1959
Born October 17
1967
Richard was 8 when the first Super Bowl was played
1971
Richard was 12 when Walt Disney World opened in Florida
1982
Richard was 23 when "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" opened in theaters
1997
Richard was 38 when "Titanic" opened in theaters
2005
Richard was 46 when the first video was posted to YouTube
2015
Richard was 56 when "Hamilton" opened on Broadway
2022
Richard was 63 when ChatGPT was released to the public
2026
Passed away August 19, age 66
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