Dana Shadrick

Dana Allen Shadrick, 88, of Barrington, Illinois, passed away on July 1, 2026.

Born on December 24, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, Dana spent much of his childhood moving between Lima and Lakewood, Ohio, before settling in Shelby, Ohio, where he entered Shelby High School as a junior. There he became active in the Thespian Club, served as a photographer for the school newspaper, and was elected class president. A proud graduate of Shelby High School, Dana went on to earn a degree in marketing from Miami University. He remained a devoted Miami alumnus throughout his life, proudly wearing the university’s apparel until his final days. It was at Miami University that he met the love of his life, Carol Minner. They married in 1960 and shared more than 55 wonderful years together until Carol’s passing in 2015.

After graduating from Miami University in 1959, Dana accepted a position with AMF in the heart of New York City. He built a successful career in restaurant equipment sales and consulting. In 1975, believing they could serve a broader range of clients, Dana and his business partner founded Farmer Shadrick Associates. Together they grew the firm to a dozen employees, and Dana continued leading the business as an entrepreneur until his retirement in 1999.

Dana and Carol moved with their two sons to Barrington, Illinois, in 1968, after making their home first in New Jersey and then Connecticut. Barrington became their lifelong home, where they raised their family, built lasting friendships, and created a lifetime of cherished memories. He remained there until 2024, a testament to his deep love for the home and community he and Carol had built together.

It seems fitting that Dana passed away during our nation’s 250th anniversary celebration, as he deeply loved America and often said that his love for this country was something he hoped to pass on to his grandchildren and to future generations. An avid photographer, he documented his love of the outdoors, travel, and camping throughout the United States. He and Carol visited all 50 states together, something he never tired of mentioning with a smile. Family and friends will forever hear him counting “1, 2, 6!” instead of “Say cheese” before snapping another picture. Above all, he treasured time spent with family and friends. During retirement, he and Carol traveled whenever they could and cherished every opportunity to be with loved ones. Always happiest when helping others, Dana was known for his kindness, generosity, and genuine warmth. Many who knew him said he was simply the nicest person they had ever met. His quiet acts of service were legendary among friends and neighbors, from faithfully shoveling sidewalks each winter to countless other acts of kindness that often went unnoticed. In recognition of the trustworthiness and integrity that defined his life, he received the Character Counts!

Award in 2008 and a Certificate of Appreciation from the Village of Barrington Sesquicentennial Committee in 2015.

Dana was the proud father of Dana (the late Karen) Shadrick and Steve (Jeri) Shadrick; loving grandfather of Tyler (Sarah), Scott, Sydney, and Melissa Shadrick; dear brother of Kathy Jordan, Tom (Marian) Shadrick, and Scott Shadrick (Tom Livermore); and beloved uncle and friend to many.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol; his sister, Joy (Jack) Sipple; and his parents, Dana and Helen Shadrick.

A private celebration of Dana’s life will be held at the convenience of the family. The family is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and support of relatives and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org).

Arrangements by Inclusive Funeral Care, 773-318-1305 or www.InclusiveFuneralCare.com.