Daniel D. Shereika

Daniel Dean Shereika passed peacefully on Friday, March 20 at the age of 79. Dan was born on May 16, 1946 in Denver, Colorado to Ferdinand and June Shereika. He graduated from Westfield High School in 1964 and directly entered into a life of public service, enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps at age 17 as his father and uncle before him. Dan went to Camp Pendleton, California for training before deploying overseas. He then served with the second artillery group in Okinawa, Japan, receiving the Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Medal. He was later stationed in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Dan was very proud of his service and enjoyed celebrating his “real birthday,” each year on November 10, the anniversary of the founding of the Marines. Most recently, he celebrated his 250th with his Marine brothers!

After being honorably discharged from the Marines in 1968 at the rank of Sergeant E-5, he joined the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C. Soon after, he met and married Lisa Marie Hettich on June 8, 1985. Dan showed his love to Lisa every day and made going to the gym together a routine since they married. They also shared a love of motorcycles. His pristine Harley Davidson Heritage Classic was his pride and joy. Whether bringing Lisa her morning coffee or being lovingly known as the Uber driver to her many appointments, he always stood by her side. During his time with the force, he served in many capacities, beginning as a foot-beat officer in 5D and later becoming a motorman. He was part of the Repeat Offender Project, a specialized police unit which worked to apprehend career criminals. He was also frequently featured on City Under Siege, a local crime television show. Dan spent 23 years with the D.C. force before retiring as a sergeant in 1991. He then joined the Fort Detrick Police as part of the Provost Marshal’s Office and was soon promoted to chief. While working at Fort Detrick, he was also active with the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 268, for many years. Upon retirement in 2012, he was awarded the Department of the Army Superior Civilian Service Award for his outstanding leadership and impact on the community.

In his retirement, he enjoyed being a member of the Monocacy Pistol Club, American Legion Post 11, and Frederick County Conservative Club. He was also a faithful member of Grace Community Church.

Dan also found joy in traveling with his loving wife of 40 years, tending to their home, visiting with lifelong friends and spending time with his family who affectionately called him “Pop.” Those closest to him will remember his quiet ways and dry sense of humor - everyone had a Danny story.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents Ferdinand and June Shereika, and his brother Mike. He is survived by his wife, Lisa Shereika and his children, Eric Shereika (Brittany); Alex Shereika (Jessika); Daniel Shereika Jr. (Meghan); Jennifer Lewis (Charles);

Thomas LaTourette (Lisa); 10 grandchildren, Caroline, Carson, Kimberly, Allison, Owen, Emily, Rachel, Jessica, Joshua and David; and 2 great-grandchildren, Ava and Sebastian. He is also survived by his brother Larry Kisielius (Candace); sister Jean Shereika; and brother Paul Shereika.

We are comforted in knowing that Dan is in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Semper Fi!

The family extends a special thanks to Jennifer Drennan and to the countless others who have surrounded them with their love and prayers during this difficult time.

A viewing will be held at Stauffer Funeral Home (1621 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick, MD 21702) on Friday, March 27 from 4:00 - 7:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make a donation to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or the Gary Sinise Foundation in Dan’s memory.