Willard R. Shine

Winsted:  Willard R. Shine, 63, passed away on Sunday, March 17, 2019, at his home, after a long illness with frontotemporal dementia.  He was the husband of Ruth (Blasco) Shine and a devoted and loving father to three children.  Born in New Britain, May 3, 1955, he was the son of the late Robert and Sheila (Stocking) Shine and had lived in Winsted since 1984.  He attended Porter's School of Drafting in 1974. He then attended UCONN where he graduated in 1979 with a degree in mechanical engineering and a degree in biological sciences. He served as the president of his school's mechanical engineering honor society. Prior to his illness, he lead a successful career as an explosives engineer.  Billy was a brilliant man, serious at most times with a keen wit and a sense of humor that earned him the nickname "Wild Bill."   He loved his family, spending time outdoors, hunting, fishing, knife throwing, and rendezvous camping with his son. He was known for mowing the lawn in his speedo bathing suit. He loved martial arts and would often meditate. He achieved one of his greatest accomplishments at the age of 40, earning his black belt in Taekwondo and later became an instructor. He strived to live a healthy and fit life and was a regular at the local YMCA. He was an avid hunter with life long hunting partners. He was also a member of the Goshen Sportsmen's Association, where he enjoyed much of his free time. He was an avid reader and also enjoyed cooking and grilling for the many family parties he hosted. Sundays were known for his Belgian waffles, complete with whipped cream and strawberries. He had a passion and skill for brewing beer, which he was always happy to share over a good story. He married his childhood sweetheart, Ruth, in 1984. This April would mark 45 years together. In addition to his loving wife, he leaves three children, Sarah Stemmler and her husband Michael of Rocky Hill, Jessica Gerace and her husband Jordan of Boynton Beach, FL, and Nicholas Shine and his girlfriend Crystal Thornton of Winsted; a brother, Timothy Shine  and his wife Kathy of Higganum and their two children, Kelsey and Timothy; one aunt, Lucille Stocking of Bloomfield; two grandchildren, Brian Stemmler and Oliver Gerace and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is survived by two brothers in law, Andrew Blasco and his wife Monika, and Edward Blasco; sisters in law Cathy Blasco, Maryann Blasco, Marie Messina, and Irene Naumec and her husband Ted. He leaves behind many members of the Boyers, his second family in Maine.  He was a friend to everyone he met and leaves behind many dear friends.  Services will be held at the discretion of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to theaftd.org..

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