He was born on February 21, 1960, in Mansfield, Ohio, to the late Thelma J. (Lykins) and Earcel Paul Shears Sr. Daniel worked for Stoneridge for 28 years and attended Crossroads Church. The last year of his life was very difficult, but Daniel’s faith carried him through. He was very close with his nephew, Robert Knipp Jr., who never left his side while he was sick and had genuine interest in Daniel’s well-being. He was a very kind person, great provider for his family, and wonderful husband. He will be remembered as a quiet man full of sweetness with an amazingly kind heart.
Daniel is survived by his wife of 20 years, Carol Merwine Shears; four siblings, Joyce Knipp, David (Paula) Shears, Steve (Ann) Shears and Pammy (Mike) Davis; sister-in-law, Kathy Shears; brother-in-law, Larry (Mellie) Merwine; two sisters-in-law, Peggy (Timothy) Klinetop and Trisene Cline; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Earcel Paul Shears Jr.; brother-in-law, Robert Gene Knipp Sr.; and niece, Jenney Frontz.
The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00 am on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Wappner Funeral Directors and Crematory-Ontario, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road. The funeral service will immediately follow at 11:00 am. He will be laid to rest in Mansfield Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Crossroads Church, 1188 Park Avenue West, Mansfield, OH 44903.
