Shane Best

Shane Best, known for his generous heart and adventurous spirit, passed away on March 31. Shane adored his family and friends and had a deep reverence for nature. He loved sailing, skiing, and climbing mountains and towers all over the world. He had recently taken up long distance running, completing his first marathon with an impressive time and immediately signing up for several more. Everything Shane did was infused with passion, determination, and unbridled enthusiasm, and his love for others was boundless. Outgoing, loyal, and profoundly kind, Shane could always be counted on to lend a helping hand to anyone in need without hesitation. He had a special gift for noticing what people needed and quietly offering his assistance without being asked.

Shane’s professional life was also filled with adventure and a dedication to helping others. He became an EMT at a young age and took great pride in serving as a ski patrolman on Whitetail mountain in Pennsylvania and Mammoth and Alpine Meadows in California for many years. His strong work ethic and fearless nature also led him to embrace a career in broadcast communication tower installation services and maintenance. Shane worked on some of the tallest structures in the world including Sutro Tower, the Sears Tower, and the Twin Towers. The work of Shane and his crew was once featured in an episode of the World’s Toughest Fixes which aired on the National Geographic Channel ("2000 Foot Tower," Season 1 Episode 6). Shane embraced his entrepreneurial side by founding his own tower services company called Best Endeavours (www.bestendeavours.net), traveling across four continents to scale great heights.

Shane is survived by his wife Amanda Best, his canine “son” Colin, his mother Nancy Pearson, siblings Dawn Bertsch, Buddy Best, Rodney Pearson Jr., Jordan Pearson, Ashley Bryda, their spouses Bryan Bertsch, Suzanne Best, Scott Jerome, and Eric Bryda, a sailboat load of nieces and nephews, Amanda’s mother Joan Putnam, brother Edward Putnam, brother Jojo Putnam and his wife Patty Putnam, and countless dear friends who were considered family.

The family will be holding a private memorial but no funeral services are planned. If you wish to honor Shane, in lieu of flowers we invite you to make a donation to the Sky’s the Limit Fund (https://www.skysthelimitfund.org), an organization that provides financial assistance for adolescents and young adults struggling with addiction and mental health issues to attend nature-based therapy programs they would be unable to afford on their own.

Shane's story does not end here. He will continue to inspire all who knew him and he will always be remembered for his big heart, zest for life, and courageous leadership.