Daniel G. Shelp

Canandaigua– Daniel G. Shelp, age 80, passed away peacefully at home, on Monday, February 17, 2025. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Christine; four children, Jessica Shelp of East Rochester, Sara Rance of Honeoye Falls, Amy (Todd) McDonnell of Corvallis, OR and James (Krishna) Shelp of Greece; six grandchildren, Jaylen Shelp, Haily Mae Shelp, Lillian Brady, Lita Mae Brady, Sonya McDonnell and Quinn McDonnell; cousin who was more like a brother, Jack Fowley; and many special friends including Leroy Brown, Kim and Manny Rodriguez. We would be remiss not to mention he leaves behind his Pitbull, Hazel Mae and Yorkipoo, Cocoa Bean. He was predeceased by his brother, Irwin Shelp; and sister, Betty Youngman.
Dan was born in Rochester and was the son of James and Ella Mae (Fowley) Shelp. He graduated from West High School in Rochester and briefly attended the University of Rochester. Dan enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1963 and was very proud of his military service. He received the Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Rifle Sharpshooter Badge. Dan was honorably discharged to the Brooklyn Naval Base in 1969. He was a life member of the VFW, American Legion, DAV, and PVA (Paralyzed Veterans of America).
Dan loved anything that involved a body of water, including swimming, skiing, boating and fishing. He enjoyed working in his garden or just sitting on the back deck with friends sharing laughter and cold drinks. Boy, could that man laugh! Dan had a heart of gold and would give anyone the shirt off his back. He also enjoyed investing in precious metals, coin collecting and target practice with his collection of firearms. Above all, he loved spending time with his family. Dan was so proud of his children and grandchildren. He reveled in their achievements and accomplishments and bragged about them every chance he got. Dan was so much to so many people. A part of him will always be with us.
"We are told as children that when we walk on the land, we leave our breath wherever we go. So, wherever we walk, that particular spot on earth never forgets us, and when we go back to these places, we know that the people who have lived there are in some way still there, and that we can actually partake of their breath and their spirit. Rina Swentzell"
In accordance with Dan's wishes, the family will celebrate his life privately. Anyone that knew Dan, knew how much he loved his animals. Please consider making a memorial contribution to the Ontario County Humane Society at Happy Tails, 2976 Co. Rd. 48, Canandaigua, NY 14424 or the charity of your choice. Arrangements are by Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home, Inc., Canandaigua. Condolences may be offered at www.johnsonkennedy.com.