Shane DeSouza's Obituary
Shane Vernon DeSouza, a man whose journey embodies the essence of the American dream and whose legacy will forever be etched in our hearts.
Born on June 8, 1967, in Jamaica, Shane's early years were filled with a passion for soccer, a sport that ignited his spirit and shaped his character. As a first-generation immigrant, Shane embraced the opportunities that America offered, seizing each moment with determination and resilience.
Shane's life was a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and the pursuit of one's dreams. He served his adopted country with pride and honor, beginning with his time in the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division. His service during the Desert Storm conflict and in the National Guard exemplified his unwavering commitment to defending the freedoms we hold dear.
Transitioning to a new chapter in his life, Shane continued his dedication to serving his country as a member of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency. Shane began his career with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in June 2003. After attending the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Glynco, Georgia, Shane was stationed at the Area Port of Seattle. He was assigned to the Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) team where his primary duty was to detect and prevent terrorist, terrorist weapons, narcotics, and other illicit items from entering or exiting the United States as well as enforcing customs, immigration, and agricultural laws. During his career, Shane was responsible for the facilitation of legitimate trade while inspecting containers entering the U.S. aboard vessels arriving from foreign ports.
In 2014 Shane transferred to the Port of Miami with CBP. After a few years there, he realized something was missing in his life and in 2018 he decided to return to the Pacific Northwest and the Area Port of Seattle. Shane was very fortunate to be able to continue his career back in the Pacific Northwest where he started. During his tenure as a CBP officer, Shane was an instrumental team member for 22-year career with Customs and Border Protection. His selfless devotion to duty was immeasurable to the success of the Area Port of Seattle, and his diligence in carrying out his duties was exemplary. Shane was very proud of his position as a CBP officer and his important mission of safeguarding our nation’s borders in protecting the Homeland and our communities. Shane will be missed by all within the CBP family.
But beyond his professional achievements, Shane's true joy came from his family. His marriage to Lisa was a union built on love, respect, and unwavering support. Together, they raised two children, Raechel and Eric, instilling in them values of integrity, compassion, and perseverance.
And then there were Shane's granddaughters, Luna and Ariana, who brought immeasurable joy and laughter into his life. His love for them knew no bounds, and he cherished every moment spent in their presence.
Shane's generosity extended even beyond his passing, as he selflessly chose to be an organ donor. His heart, liver, and kidneys now beat and function within others, offering them a chance at a new life. His lungs, meanwhile, contribute to vital research that may one day save countless others.
As we bid farewell to Shane, let us remember the unforgettable mark he left on the world and the lives he touched along the way. His legacy of service, sacrifice, and love will continue to inspire us all. Though he may no longer walk among us, his spirit will live on in the memories we cherish and the values we uphold.
Rest in peace, Shane Vernon DeSouza. May your journey onward be as extraordinary as the life you lived.
next door.
and when you miss me most, remember that i have only built a house next door. a single breath away. we can whisper through the walls. and send love notes in the shape of stars and sunsets and the way that the light glistens on the water just so. and although things are hard for you now, i am not far away. i am absent only in flesh but my spirit is dancing with the heavenly ones. we will reach each other once again. i promise. just not yet. find laughter again, okay? find music and purpose and ways to feel alive. we are only separated by a glimmer of time. an interval. take comfort. i have only built a house next door.
ullie-kaye
2 Corinthians 4:17-18: “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
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