Sept. 22, 1935 — Dec. 19, 2025
Vincent Paul Shubat died on Dec. 19, 2025, at the age of 90, leaving behind a wide circle of family, friends, and acquaintances. Vince lived a life defined by curiosity, courage, and connection.
Any outing with Vince was likely to take longer than planned. A simple walk or coffee stop could turn into a series of conversations — with neighbors, favorite baristas, local children, or people he had met just moments before. Vince had an uncanny ability to engage anyone in conversation and these small, everyday interactions often grew into unexpected friendships.
Vince’s life was shaped by his independent spirit, astute mind, and readiness to explore new paths. Born and raised in Chicago, he struck out on his own at a young age with $50 in his pocket and a dream of heading to Alaska. After serving in the Navy, he made the decision to settle in the West, a choice that proved fateful when it led him to Nancy, the love of his life and his wife of 64 years. Nancy was his constant companion in raising their family and exploring the world. Together they built a partnership rooted in love, laughter, and a shared sense of adventure.
Vince made another bold move when he left a corporate career to start a consulting partnership, embracing work that he was passionate about. Later, he and Nancy chose to leave their suburban home for life in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where Vince spent many enjoyable hours on the deck, listening to music beneath the branches of an oak tree.
That same spirit of adventure carried them to sea, when they sailed down the California coast to Mexico with their son in their own 32-foot boat. Over the years they explored cities around the world, where they arrived with few plans but a deep desire to experience daily life as locals and to explore together.
Thirty-three years ago Vince and Nancy settled in Ashland, Oregon, a place they grew to love for its sense of community and the friendships they formed there.
Vince took great joy in spending time with family and was especially devoted to Nancy, his partner in every sense. In addition to Nancy he is survived by his son Milo (Jeanne); his daughter Dana (Steve); his grandchildren Paul, Danielle (Bryce), Claudia, Katherine, and Brooke; his great-grandchildren Riley and Blake; his brother John (Shari); and beloved nieces and nephews.
Vince will be remembered for his humor, his larger-than-life personality, and his willingness to follow his dreams. We honor him by carrying forward his sense of exploration, his joy in connecting with others, and his belief that every conversation holds possibility. A celebration of his life will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS).
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