Trending
Dwight Filmore Shaw Sr., 91, of Duncansville, passed away at his home on Oct. 24, 2026, following a two-year battle with colon cancer. Born in Newry on Feb. 19, 1935, he was the son of Wilfred F. and Josephine (Snyder) Shaw.
Dwight spent his career working on the Pennsylvania Railroad, retiring under Conrail. His railroad years remained vivid in his memory, and he could tell stories about his work as though it were yesterday. Whenever news of a train wreck broke, he often had an explanation before the reporters did.
Self-taught and fiercely independent, Dwight was a man who could build or repair nearly anything. He even made a metal suitcase to carry his tools, lanterns and radios to work -- a practical creation that reflected his resourcefulness. He built his home in 1969 and later added three large garages for his boats, tractors and many projects. He remained in that home for the rest of his life. Even in his eighties, he was still tackling roofing work. Removing and replacing a car engine was something he could handle on his own. If he couldn't find his tools, which were unorganized, he would just go out and buy new ones.
He was a hard man to get to know and had a hard time showing his love and emotions. His brain was always thinking and racing. His independence, determination and unmistakable personality were part of what made him who he was.
For many years, he had a campground along the Juniata River, where he enjoyed boating and fishing. In later years, he built a chicken coop and raised chickens, taking eggs to his favorite gathering places to give away. He enjoyed spending time at the Duncansville VFW and the Allegheny Club in Hollidaysburg.
The father of ten children, Dwight gave all five of his daughters names beginning with "D." His family grew to span five generations, including 21 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his sister, Ellen (Shaw) Shultz of Johnstown; daughters: Dianna (Shaw) Gonzales of Altoona, Debra Shaw Robinson (Lee) of Monroeville, Dorinda Shaw of Altoona, Denise Shaw of California and Donna Shaw of Georgia; and sons, Edward (Jodie) of Shippensburg and Joe of Bahrain.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sons: Will, Dwight Jr., and Richard; brother, Glen (Kay) Shaw; sister, Grace Adams; and granddaughters, Jessica Lynn Ramsey and Brandy Shaw.
Dwight also maintained a lasting friendship with Joan Hall Rudolph, the mother of his children, and her husband, Robert (Rudy). With his own sense of humor, Dwight affectionately referred to Robert as his "ex-husband-in-law."
The family extends heartfelt thanks to his hospice team, especially his daily nurse, Morgan, for the care and kindness shown to Dwight.
Friends will be received from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, at Sorge Funeral Home & Crematory Inc., Hollidaysburg. A funeral procession will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026, from the funeral home to the interment at Carson Valley Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Boys Town or Kids Wish Network.