Dwight Shank

Dwight Earl Shank, 84, passed peacefully from his earthly life to his heavenly home on May 9, 2026.

He was born on October 19, 1941, in Sterling, Illinois, to James Leroy Shank and Phyllis Elizabeth (Miller) Shank. As the eldest of six children, Dwight dearly loved and cherished his five sisters: Delores Karpinen, Donna Dilts, Delma Shank, Dawn Hurley, and Denise “Jo” Jones.

Dwight attended the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Management. It was there that he met the love of his life, Cherie Lynn Mertens. The two were married on August 19, 1967, and together they built a loving family, raising their two children, Kelly Shank and Jeffrey Shank.

Following college, Dwight proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Captain in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit during the Vietnam War. He was wounded in service and received several honors and commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Purple Heart.

Dwight spent many years working in sales before becoming the owner of Rocky Mountain Aggregate Supply. After retirement, he and Cherie enjoyed traveling together and embracing the RV lifestyle.

A man of deep faith, compassion, and kindness, Dwight lived with a heart devoted to God and to those he loved. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend whose warmth, strength, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Dwight was preceded in death by his parents, James and Phyllis Shank; his sisters, Delores, Donna, and Delma; and his son, Jeffrey Shank.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Cherie Shank; his daughter, Kelly Shank; his sisters, Dawn Hurley and Denise “Jo” Jones; his grandson, Joshua Knudsen; his granddaughter, Ashley Shank; and many cherished cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to HopeWest Hospice, 3090 North 12th Street, Grand Junction, CO 81506.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, May 15, at 10:30 a.m. at Redlands Community Church Chapel, 2327 Broadway, Grand Junction, CO 81507.