Harold Ross Shafer

Harold Ross Shafer, 84, Peru, born on July 11, 1941, passed away on December 20, 2025. He lived a life grounded in family, home, and good food.

Harold is survived by his wife of 59 years, Charlene Shafer, whom he married on August 27, 1966, in the First Brethren Church of Mexico. Together, they built their life in the same home where they raised their children and created a legacy of joyfulness.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Noel (Amy) Shafer, Tricia (Eric) Edwards, Cheri (Greg) Lantz, and Melissa (Jim) Kehoe. Harold was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren – Amanda, Allison, Neo, Jack, Rowan, Beckett, Maddie, Alyssa, and Ethan – and a great-grandfather to two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Carolyn Jean Wilson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and Arnol Shafer and brothers Max and Bob. The youngest of four children, Harold grew up surrounded by a close-knit family, and that’s how he created his own family, one filled with love, support, and enduring bonds.

Harold’s life was more than the titles he carried: farmer, gardener, business owner, husband, father. His property became a quiet landmark known for its extensive Christmas decorations enjoyed by passersby, especially those who paused at the four-way stop. Harold took pride in his home, his yard, and his flowerbeds, and was often found sitting on the patio beneath the maple tree, enjoying the life he had cultivated.

He took his family to state parks where they walked the trails, shared adventures, and moments of pure goofing off. He had a quiet, competitive spirit that showed up in badminton matches, softball games, water fights, and rounds of miniature golf. He was tough to beat, but winning was never the point. Fun was. Laughter was. And Harold knew how to have both.

A loyal Purdue fan and John Purdue Club member, Harold proudly supported both women’s and men’s athletic teams. Boiler Up! With three children who graduated from Purdue, black and gold became part of the family uniform. Whether attending the Rose Bowl when Purdue played, watching games from home, or wearing Purdue gear wherever he went, Purdue was simply knitted into the fabric of his life… and many sweaters. The Shafer home stood, without question, as an official Purdue-supporting household.

In 1978, Harold and Charlene purchased The Knit Knack Shop, building it together into a family business that connected them with the world. Their work took them across the United States and to South America, Mexico, and Canada. They welcomed guests from around the globe to their seminars, including visitors from Japan, the UK, and Canada. All to a shop located in the middle of a field. Through this work, Harold helped bring the world closer through business, friendship and hospitality. Though not known for his technological savvy – pecking with one finger on a keyboard – he understood its value and was among the first businesses to establish a website in the county.

Harold was never a man of many words, but he listened deeply. He fit in wherever he was, carried an easygoing presence, and left impressions that lasted. He designed his life by following what made sense to him, even when it looked unconventional to others. He trusted his own way. There wasn’t a single item on his bucket list left untouched. If Harold believed he could do something, he did it.

He lived fully. He lived intentionally. And he lived surrounded by the people and places he loved.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at The Waters of Wabash East and Stillwater Hospice for their compassionate care.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at McClain Funeral Home, with Pastor Lorie Keck officiating. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery, Mexico, Indiana.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025, at McClain Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers donation may be made through the funeral home to First Brethren Church of Mexico, Indiana.

McClain Funeral Home, Denver, Indiana, has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.mcclainfh.com.