Dan was one of the greatest people I've ever met. After my husband Brandon introduced me to him he became like a big brother. Dan and Charis became family inviting us over, and to church. We loved spending time with them and just talking. Watching the way Dan loved his family was like no other. You could tell without a doubt that Dan and Charis were beyond in love! It was as so beautiful to see. Most of all Dan was so proud of his kids he loved to talk about them when share all of their accomplishments. I remember the time Dan first met our daughter Charleigh he was so excited that he was able to hold her and put her to sleep! He loved being the baby whisper. I sure wish Charleigh could have met him more. I'm sure they would have been best buddies. 

One thing about Dan is was that he always made everyone feel so loved. Every year he made sure to wish me a happy birthday and a happy mothersday. He always kept in touch. Even when we hadn't talked in a while every time he called it was like time had never past. 

I loved Dan and was so thankful for his friendship and the way he treated my husband like a brother. 

I was just shared information about Dan’s memorial this next Tuesday-Unfortunately I won’t be able to attend, which I’m super upset about. My son starts school the next day and we have an open house for him at his school Tuesday evening.

I extend my heartfelt, deepest condolences your entire family. 

I worked with Dan many years ago at Chapins. I am 41 and a bit older than Dan, but even as a younger person than me, he was one of the most genuine, nicest people I have ever met. He was always there to lend an ear, give a hug, or to talk it out. I remember a particular night that I was having a rough time in a relationship and Dan could tell something was going on. At the end of our shift, he asked me to go for a walk. I agreed and we walked up and down the downtown area for hours. He just listened to me. Didn’t judge. Listened, hugged, and told me to not settle. He was much younger, but so full of compassion and wise beyond his years. He truly impacted me.

A few weeks ago, he messaged me on Facebook showing me a picture I had shared of his feet many years ago when we were working and said, Linds, why did you share a picture of my feet?! I responded, I have no idea. He laughed and told me how he hoped I was doing well. We chatted back and forth for a bit and he was so kind, as usual. He always tried to stay connected-even after all of these years-especially after we were all married with kids. His love for his immediate family and his own was always his top priority, as well as, his friends.

My heart breaks for you all. He was the best of the best. I am profoundly sorry for your immense loss ❤️ He will be so very, very missed. 

All of my love,

Lindsey Kessling