Dale Louis Shirley

Dale Louis Shirley, 65, of Floyds Knobs, Indiana died at his home surrounded by family on Sunday, March 1st, 2026.

Dale was born in New Albany on February 1st, 1961 to Agnes and Jerry Shirley. He was a member of the 1979 graduating class of Floyd Central High School. After high school, he joined the military and served as a military police officer at Fort Knox. He worked for Marioff North America for 22 years and was a leader in the fire suppression industry for 42 years.

Dale was an explorer at heart and he traveled extensively throughout his life for work and pleasure. Over the years he logged many international trips, including to Paris, Finland, England, Czech Republic, and Hong Kong. Domestically, he was able to check off 49 of the 50 U.S. States, only missing Maine!

Unsurprisingly for a traveler, Dale had a deep life-long love of history and reading. He seemed to always be working through academic non-fiction or historical fiction novels, usually related to the Late Middle Ages in medieval European history.

He loved spending time in the outdoors and enjoyed physically demanding hobbies - an avid touring cyclist and cross fitter. He lived in Alaska for a number of years and enjoyed fly fishing, white water rafting, and hiking as well.

Dale was a music enthusiast and guitar collector, playing both bass and electric guitar. Classic Rock was what he enjoyed playing the most, but enjoyed music of all kinds. He loved fashion and had an ever-expanding collection of unique ‘kicks’ (sneakers).

A great home chef and lover of the culinary arts - Dale was a connoisseur of gourmet experiences when traveling and at home. He could never say no to an evening of good cheese, good wine (or Old Fashioneds preferably), and good company.

Dale was a passionate, exuberant personality - he loved life and experiencing everything it had to offer. He was a lifelong learner with a quick wit, always ready with a story or perfect comeback. He loved his family and made friends everywhere he went.

In short, Dale was an inspiration to everyone around him to enjoy life to the fullest and staying positive, no matter the circumstances. He will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him.

Dale was preceded in death by his mother, Agnes (nee Jacobi) Shirley and father, Jerry Shirley. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathryn Woodruff-Shirley; sister, Geri Shirley (Erick Farr); son, Curtis Shirley (Heather); step-daughters, Ally (Matthew) and Shelby Hargrave; and nephew, Fox Farr.

Cremation was chosen following Dale's wishes. A Memorial Gathering will be from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, March 13, 2026 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany). His Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 am on Saturday, at St. Mary of the Knobs Catholic Church (5719 St. Marys Road, Floyds Knobs).

In-lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society or Hosparus Health of Southern Indiana.

Please consider sharing a memory of Dale or leaving a special message for the family by completing the online Guestbook below.