David Wallin Shaw

David was born in Grand Rapids on April 1, 1955 to Robert and Frances Shaw.

After graduating from Grandville High School he worked and traveled throughout Europe, Africa, India and the Middle East. David then served three years as a paratrooper for the US Army in Vicenza, Italy, where he greatly enjoyed the opportunities to engage with the local Italian community.

David returned to Grand Rapids, graduated from Grand Valley State College with a Bachelors Degree in Nursing and worked as a registered nurse for three years in the Oncology & Critical Care Units at Butterworth Hospital. He moved to Minneapolis to obtain a Masters Degree in Nurse Anesthesia, graduating with honors in May 1992, and returned again to Grand Rapids where he joined an anesthesia practice at Blodgett Hospital. Over 18 highly rewarding years, he was most appreciative of the many talented medical professionals he worked with in hospitals and surgical centers in the area.

David married Donna Thome in 1990 and together they pursued their shared interests in traveling, hiking, bicycling, scuba diving and dancing.

David retired from his nursing career in July, 2010. He spent the last four years deeply involved in the lives and well-being of his beloved wife, daughter and grandson. He volunteered for environmental action and contributed to medical research related to brain cancer.

David is preceded in death by his father Robert.

Surviving David are his cherished spouse and partner of 33 years, Donna B. (Thome) Shaw, his daughter Georgianna (Georgie) Shaw and his grandson Finnegan Shaw.

Also surviving are his mother Frances Wallin Shaw, his sisters Debora, Catherine and Barbara Shaw, and a network of relatives and friends.

Keeping with David’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.