Daniel E. Shanholt

Daniel E. Shanholt,age 74  of Elkhart, passed away at the Center for Hospice, Raclin House on Friday, March 8, 2024 leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience that will forever be cherished by his family and friends. Dan was born July 7, 1949, in Elkhart, Indiana to the late Jack and Ruth (Rader) Shanholt. He was a proud graduate of Jimtown High School, class of 1968, where he excelled on the golf team, the baseball diamond and played several instruments in the school band. Following graduation, Dan felt the call of his country and enlisted in the US Army and was stationed at Ft. Leonard Wood in Missouri. On October 14, 2001, Dan married Janice Miller-Fugate in Lapaz, Indiana.

Jan survives, along with Dan’s daughters Julie (Tom) Miller of Goshen and Angie (fiancé, Dave Stevens) Siebert of Elkhart.  Surviving as well are his stepchildren, Bob (Jenny) Fugate of Kouts, Indiana and Chris Miller of Mishawaka.  Dan is also survived by his siblings Jack Shanholt and Karla Funnell, both of Elkhart, 15 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and his Yorkie “Cooper,” who Dan often referred to as “the son he never had.”  Dan was also eagerly anticipating the arrival of 2 more great grandchildren due this summer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Ruth Shanholt, his daughter Dawn Underwood, his brother, Gary Shanholt and his sisters-in-law Edith Shanholt and Theresa Shanholt.

The Shanholt family will host a celebration of Dan’s life from 2-5 pm on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the Baugo Township Fire Department, 57955 Co Rd 3 B, Elkhart, IN 46517.  At 4pm, a time of sharing will begin where those who know Dan can share a story of his life.  Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Osceola has been entrusted with his care.

Dan was employed by Adams Westlake for several years before taking a position with AM General where he retired after 32 years.  He also served his community as a volunteer firefighter with the Baugo Township Fire Department for over 21 years before his retirement in 1993. He was an avid fan of Notre Dame sports and Chicago Bears football and was a skilled bowler, rolling several perfect 300 games throughout his lifetime. He also found joy on the softball field, and the golf course, participating in leagues throughout the area.

A proud cancer survivor, he wore the badge of resilience with honor for many years. Throughout his battle, he maintained his laid-back personality and wonderful sense of humor, bringing light and laughter to those around him, and his nurses lovingly referred to him as “Dan the Man.”

His love for life extended to his travels with his wife, Jan. Whether exploring the Smoky Mountains, venturing out West, or basking in the sun in Florida, Dan cherished every moment spent adventuring with Jan by his side. Together, they even took up ballroom dancing, where Dan's agility on the dance floor never failed to impress.

Beyond his many passions, Dan's greatest joy came from his children and grandchildren. They were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Dan's trademark look was complete when he put on his cowboy hat, a symbol of his fun-loving spirit and rugged charm.

In his memory, donations may be made to the Baugo Township Fire Department or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. To light a virtual candle, share as story of Dan’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.