Walter Thomas Shanks

August 30, 1941-July 28, 2025

Walter Thomas Shanks (Bubba/ Bub) 83 of Wareham Mass, passed away on July 28, 2025. He was the loving widower of the late Dolores Shanks (Dee).

Walter was the son of the late Walter Shanks and Lillian Cardoza. Born and raised in Brockton Mass. Walter was known for being an all-star football player, which earned him a place in the Brockton football Hall of Fame. In addition to his football exploits he swam and competed in track during the off seasons. After graduating Brockton High School Walter enlisted in the United States Army, serving 3 years as a Military Police officer. A job which led him to his career with the Brockton Police Department. His passion and dedication for the job drove him to achieve the rank of lieutenant, all while attending New Hampshire College, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree. Walter retired from the police department in 1997. One of the many joys he experienced during his time as a police officer was working with the K9-unit, training police dogs.

Walter was proud of the home he rebuilt in Brockton on Thatcher Court . A home where his friends and family gathered for cookouts, pool days and celebrations

In retirement Walter and Dolores spent their days in Wareham. Walter took great pride in caring for his home. He enjoyed sitting on the deck watching the boats with a cold glass of lemonade. He was an avid fisherman and a lover of seafood. He enjoyed classic movies, and his home was always filled with music.

Walter was known as a historian, sharing family stories, his days on the police force, and childhood memories. Every story Bub shared came with a life lesson that he wanted to pass on.

Walter is predeceased by his sisters, Roberta Brown and Lila Johnson. He is survived by his brothers Richard and Dennis Shanks and sister Sally Holland. Walter also leaves behind his children, Jeffery Shanks, his wife and children, Brian Shanks, his wife and children and his daughter Elizabeth Shanks, and children. Walter is also survived by Amanda Ferris (whom he raised as a daughter with Dolores) and her husband Jeff, Christine Jenkins, her late husband and their children, Sheila Whitaker, her husband and their children and Walter Curnow, his wife, their children. He is also remembered by countless extended family and friends.

In addition, the family would like to thank Walter's home health care team. Their assistance kept Walter safe at home and provided care and companionship.

A funeral service will be held in the Russell & Pica Funeral Home, 165 Belmont St., Brockton on Monday, August 4, 2025 at 11:00AM, followed by interment at Calvary Cemetery, Brockton. Calling hours in the funeral home on Sunday, August 3, 2025 from 4:00-7:00 PM.