Staff

Liz & Steve Winand

Founders of Shank’s Mare in 1978, Liz and Steve offer their enthusiasm and love of the outdoors to every customer of Shank’s Mare. Steve has over 30 years of experience in paddling, hiking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. He is our original guide, instructor and fearless leader! Liz is the “detail person”, and also spends a lot of time in the kitchen creating the delicious provisions for Shank’s Mare programs.

Devin Winand

Devin has been working off and on at Shank’s Mare almost his whole life since he is the son of Liz and Steve. Devin is a graduate of Penn State, and a combat Army veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom. He teaches kayaking, guides trips and tours, works with the Kid’s Camp, and shares his years of experience in the shop as well. Devin’s wife, Kristan, is the curator of the Shank’s Mare’s Susquehanna House Gallery. She can occasionally be found in the shop giving us a hand and making Shank’s Mare truly a family affair.

Kyle Lefever

Kyle began his work at Shank’s Mare as a summer intern, and since graduating from Lock Haven University with his degree in Outdoor Recreation, Kyle has joined our staff full-time. His love of kids and educational background, make him a popular leader for our Kid’s Camp. He is our “Number One Game Guy, as he introduces both our kids and adults to his vast array of outdoor team building games. He is also one of our kayak tour guides and instructors, and continues to offer our customers his growing expertise with all of Shank’s Mare’s product lines. Kyle also works with the Mason-Dixon Trail Club in trail maintenance efforts in our area.

Jonathan Darby

Jon has been with Shank’s Mare for three years, and continues to be our “green” consultant as he shares his concern for the environment and work experience on an organic farm. He does a great job in the shop as well as with our Kid’s Camp and guiding kayak outings. His experience in “family” kayaking with wife Erin and children Elizabeth and Abrahm help Shank’s Mare cater to this aspect of paddling.

Erin Darby

When you visit Shank’s Mare’s Lock 2 Cafe, or spend an evening in The Rookery, you will probably be greeted by Erin. Besides being a full-time Mom and home school teacher, she is our lead cafe person, and Liz’s right hand woman when it comes to Shank’s Mare food events.

Brita & Dray

These friends will always welcome you to Shank’s Mare. They are our expert consultants for our canine product lines.

Staff Updates

Gretchen Young, who had worked full time at Shank’s Mare for over 10 years is now a stay-at-home mother of three. She still helps us out with special programs, and she is one of our Artists in Residence in the Susquehanna House Gallery where she displays her recycled glasswork.

Meredith Holt Grim is one of our former staff, kayak instructor and guide. Mere is currently completing a nursing degree at Drexel University. She continues to work as a Shank’s Mare guide when her time allows.

Shank’s Mare is a family owned and operated business. Our most important asset is our staff, and they are like family to us. We hope you feel welcome as you visit Shank’s Mare. It is our sincere desire to provide you with a warm and rewarding experience both in the shop and outdoors. Here are the folks who make this possible...