Daniel Knepper “Dan” Morris, age 78, of Shelby, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 2, 2026 surrounded by his beloved wife, Stephanie, and their three children.

Dan was born on October 12, 1948, in Everett, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Ambert and Helen (Knepper) Morris. The tenth of thirteen children, Dan spent his early childhood in Everett before moving with his family to Shelby, Ohio, during his fourth-grade year. It was during his early school years that he met Stephanie Olewiler, the girl who would become the love of his life. The two were married on April 15, 1968, beginning a beautiful love story that would span 58 wonderful years of marriage.

A 1967 graduate of Shelby High School, Dan began his working career shortly after graduation as a printing press operator at Shelby Business Forms. He dedicated nearly four decades to the company, remaining a loyal employee until its closure in March 2006. Never one to shy away from hard work, Dan began a second career at Shelby Hospital, where he took great pride in his role as a member of the housekeeping team. He continued working there until his retirement in 2014.

Dan had a lifelong appreciation for Ford Mustangs and Jeeps and was an avid model train enthusiast. He also enjoyed golfing, hunting, and spending time outdoors. Many days found Dan riding his bicycle along the bike trail, often treating himself to a well-deserved milkshake along the way. Dan was also known for a few specialties in the kitchen, particularly his famous goulash, Rice Krispie treats, and homemade hardtack candy, which he lovingly made each Christmas. With his friendly nature and easygoing personality, Dan was someone who could get along with just about anyone. He truly never knew an enemy, although the occasional sport official might have tested that reputation.

For 54 years, Dan and Stephanie made their house on Mansfield Avenue a home, filling it with a lifetime of love, memories, and cherished moments. Dan took great pride in caring for their home, lovingly tending to every detail meticulously. He was often found on the front porch where he enjoyed spending leisure time.

A family man through and through, Dan’s greatest joy in life was his family. He was their biggest supporter and never missed an opportunity to cheer on his children and grandchildren, no matter the activity or how far he and Stephanie had to travel to be there. Dan treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His love for family extended to his siblings as well, and he looked forward to their Thursday morning breakfasts, a cherished weekly tradition filled with conversation, laughter, and time together. For Dan, family was everything, and there was no place he would rather be than surrounded by those he loved.

Dan is survived by his wife, Stephanie; their children: Molly Hoover (Randy Siegfried), Sara Hall, Nathan (Angela) Morris; grandchildren: Zachary (Julia) Hoover, Derek (MaryHeather) Hoover, Bryce (Sydney) Hoover, Hayley (Michael) Zappa, Taylor Morris, Camryn Morris, and Fynlee Morris; great-grandchildren: Henry, Deacon, and Wes Hoover, Charlotte and Andrew Hoover, and Michael and Vivienne Zappa; siblings: Doug Morris, Blair (Evelyn) Morris, Pete (Karen) Morris, Victor (Becky) Morris, Peg (Alvin) Lybarger, Sandy Kleman, and Penny (Jim) Ludben; in-laws: Sarah Morris, Suzanne Bell, Bob (Dorothy) Olewiler, and Dave (Amelia) Olewiler: numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Dan cherished his friendships with the crew from Snap Fitness and his special friends Mike Metzger and Jim Ritchie, whom he met at Shelby Business Forms and remained lifelong friends. In addition to his parents, Dan was preceded in death by his siblings: Sonny (Gayle) Morris, Don Morris, Jimmy Morris, Jane (George) Eshelman, and infant sister, Carol Jean Morris: and in-laws: Carolyn Morris and Carl Kleman.

Family and friends are welcome on Sunday, November 8, 2026 from 1-4 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, November 9, 2026 at 11 am at the United Church of Christ, 23 Church Street, Shelby with Rev. James Robinson officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Fish of Shelby, 115 W. Main Street, Shelby.

Condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or Facebook page.

Funeral Home: Penwell Funeral Home

Website: PenwellFuneralHome.com