Barry Dale Carlander

Some people simply exist, while others truly live. Barry was one of those people. He lived every day with passion, adventure, laughter, and an unwavering love for his family, his country, and the skies.

A proud American and devoted patriot, Barry honorably served his country in the United States Army for 20 years. During his military career, he fulfilled one of his greatest passions as a MEDEVAC helicopter pilot. Flying wasn’t just his job—it was his calling. He loved being in the air, and his time as a pilot was one of the greatest joys of his life.

Above all else, Barry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and son. He shared 54 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Sheilah Their marriage was built on love, friendship, and unwavering commitment. He was also a proud mama’s boy who treasured the special bond he shared with his mother throughout his life.

He was incredibly proud of his three children and absolutely adored his grandchildren. They were one of his greatest blessings, and he loved watching them grow, celebrating their accomplishments, and spending time making memories together. His family always knew how deeply they were loved.

Adventure was simply part of who he was. He loved being on the water, especially sailing, where he found peace and freedom. He was also passionate about motorcycles and was a proud member of several motorcycle clubs throughout the years. In fact, he had just purchased a new motorcycle only two months before his passing—a testament to the adventurous spirit he never lost. He also loved to travel and was always ready for his next journey.

Those who knew Barry will remember his larger-than-life personality, his sense of humor, his adventurous heart, and the genuine kindness he showed to others. He embraced life wholeheartedly, loved deeply, and never missed an opportunity to create lasting memories with the people he loved.

Although our hearts are broken by his passing, we are forever grateful for the life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of courage, service, love, strength, and adventure. His spirit lives on in every open sky, every sail catching the wind, every mile of open road, and most importantly, in the hearts of his family and friends.

Surviving are his wife of 54 years, Sheilah Padgett Carlander; daughters, Karen Renee Maikkula (Anthony) and Kristie Lynn Carlander (Jayson); son, Michael Edward Carlander (Leah); grandchildren, Paitlin Grace Martin (Chase), Caleb Austin Hammer (Tabytha), Reilly Elisabeth Altman, Mackenzie Page Carlander, Madison Leigh Carlander, Kynleigh Mae Carlander, Kendra Ellen-Lee Kozhayev (Andrew) and Anthony Edward Maikkula; great-grandchildren, Anastasia Renee Kozhayev and Estell Josephine Martin; mother, Shirley Hodgdon Carlander and sister, Peggy Carlander.

In addition to his father,Harold Edward Carlander, he was predeceased by his grandson, Ethan Tyler Hammer, and his brother, Ronnie Carlander.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Dunbar Funeral Home, Dutch Fork Chapel, 7600 WOODROW ST, IRMO, SC 29063, US, on July 25, 2026, from 2:00 pm. The family will receive friends following the service.

Memorials may be made to the Road Warrior Foundation at www.roadwarrior.org.

Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.