Daniel J. “Dan,” “Danny,” “Dano,” “Dad,” and “Papa Dan” Shaffer

Daniel J. “Dan,” “Danny,” “Dano,” “Dad,” and “Papa Dan” Shaffer, 66, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2026.

Born on June 4, 1960, to Lawrence R. “Bob” Shaffer and Rita (Schoentrup) Shaffer, Dan grew up in Monticello, Indiana, spending summers on Lake Freeman with family and friends, memories he talked about often throughout his life. He graduated from Twin Lakes High School (Class of 1978) and later attended Purdue University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Humanities, made lifelong friends, and developed a lasting love for Purdue sports and tailgating.

Dan lived in Indianapolis, Westfield, and Lebanon and truly never met a stranger. He had a gift for conversation and seemed to know somebody everywhere he went.

A proud technology “geek” before most people knew what that meant, Dan could solve just about any

computer issue, or at least confidently tell you what you did wrong. Over the years, he worked in a variety of roles, including Area Manager of Grindstone Charley’s Restaurants, online marketing, and helping lead the early spread of internet browsers. In recent years, many knew him as the friendly face greeting customers at the Whitestown Meijer.

Dan loved cheering on his children and grandchildren, Purdue sports, the Indianapolis Colts, Indianapolis in May, fishing at Rocky Fork Lake, bowling with “Bad Public,” going to the movies on Christmas Day, a really good Reuben sandwich, and being outside with music playing in the background. He was every dog’s favorite person.

Live music may have been his favorite thing of all. Favorites included Rush, Tom Petty, Nickelback, John Mellencamp, Chris Baird, and yes… even Hanson. One of Dan’s favorite memories was taking his grandsons, Jack and Nash, to their first concert, the Gin Blossoms, the same band Becky and Brad saw for their first concert with Dad years earlier.

Dan was diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) in February 2021. For the last two and a half years, he lived at Independence Village West of Zionsville in memory care. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff who cared for “Dan Dan” with such kindness and compassion.

Dan is survived by his children, Becky (Trent) Warren and Brad (Felicia) Shaffer; grandchildren, Jack and Nash Warren; sister, Patti (Shaffer) Hines; and many dear friends and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence R. “Bob” Shaffer and Rita (Schoentrup) Shaffer, and his brother, Larry Shaffer.

Put on your favorite concert t-shirt and join us for Dan’s Celebration of Life on Sunday, June 28, 2026, from 1:00–4:00 PM at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Lebanon, 2140 N. Lebanon Street, Lebanon, IN 46052.

Memorial contributions may be made to CorsoCare Hospice of Indiana in Dan’s honor.

Turn on some Rush, play a little air guitar, and raise a glass to Dan.