Longtime Channel 7 sports reporter Don Shane has died aged 70, 7 Action News has learned. Don has been with WXYZ for 23 years and no one enjoys broadcasting or reporting on our local teams more than he does.

He joined Channel 7 in 1989 – and has been involved in many very important events over the years. Many champions – but also heartbreaking failures – showing our audience the drama and emotion of the moment at the same time. The NBA Finals, the Stanley Cup, the Rose Bowl, the Las Vegas awards — Don covered it all during his two career careers in Detroit.

He loves what he does—and that joy flows right through the screen into your home. No one works harder than Don. He has earned the respect of the city’s athletes and coaches by telling the story with his preparation and professionalism.

He supports philanthropic causes and has mentored dozens of interns in the athletic department over the years – many of whom have gone on to realize professional dreams and personal aspirations in the industry. We miss Don for many reasons. For his friendly back and forth with Bill Bonds at the host’s desk.

Because of his big personality and his popular daredevil part, he can take on almost any challenge. That included a harrowing encounter with great former Lions player Chris Spielman. Don broke three ribs and many of us are asking why he did that! But in fact, Don has done it all in a nearly four-decade television news career.

He retired on February 29, 2012. A few weeks later we celebrated Don at the Broadcast House. After retirement, he moved to Arizona and spent his final years with his children in California. His family welcomed their first grandchild last May. We will miss you, Don. Our hearts go out to his entire family at this difficult time.