Randall Shank

Randall A. Shank, 57, of Frederick, Maryland, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 6, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering dedication, quiet strength, and a deep, enduring love for his family.

Born March 28, 1969, in Oak Lawn, Illinois, to Gerda and Philip Shank, Randy attended St. John’s School for the Deaf in Milwaukee before transferring to Wisconsin School for the Deaf alongside his younger brother, Brandon. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Gallaudet University and his master’s degree from Western Maryland College.

A man of many passions, Randy’s heart belonged to his family, the simple joys of the outdoors, sports (especially the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, and college basketball and football), and craftsmanship. He was a gifted handyman who could almost always be found tackling a new project around the house or in the yard. Whether building, repairing, woodworking, or landscaping, he took great pride in creating a loving home for his family.

He was a dedicated educator for more than 30 years at Wisconsin School for the Deaf, Metro Deaf School, Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf, and, most recently, as a history teacher at Maryland School for the Deaf. His impact extended well beyond the classroom, especially in athletics.

Randy served as head coach of basketball and track and field programs at each of the schools prior to Maryland. At Maryland, he led the cross country, indoor and outdoor track and field programs for more than a decade. Among Randy’s greatest gifts was his generosity with his time. He willingly spent evenings, weekends, and even summers working with athletes simply because he believed in their potential. He also devoted countless hours to coaching his own children’s sports teams. Because of this devotion, his athletic leadership was unparalleled. He was named Coach of the Year at least seven times and guided his teams to numerous national championships.

Randy moved through life with the firm belief that progress was a continuous journey. He challenged his children along with his students and athletes to push past their perceived limits and to succeed through discipline and persistence. A man of principle and simplicity, he demonstrated his love for his family through steady, daily acts of devotion and serving others. In keeping with this, Randy’s final act of generosity was the gift of tissue donation.

Randy was preceded in death by his father, Philip D. Shank. He is survived by Trudy Suggs, his partner of more than 30 years; their children, Eavan, Keene, Blane, and Maise; his mother, Gerda; his brother, Brandon; his nephew, Kelvin; his nieces, Catrina and Mariana; and his beloved pets, Oscar, Maddy, Alice, and Clerc.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Suggs-Shank Family.