Daniel Keppen, lovingly known as “Papa,” passed away on January 19, 2026 at the age of 69. Born February 18, 1956, Daniel lived a life rooted in family, hard work, and the simple joys that mattered most to him.

Dan was a true outdoorsman at heart. He loved all things hunting. Whether it was deer, bear, pheasants or grouse, he was always happiest in the woods. One of his greatest joys in life was hunting alongside his dogs, who were more than companions to him; they were family.

Beyond the outdoors, Dan enjoyed the adventures of everyday life: spending weekends at flea markets, traveling to the family cabin in Crivitz, and cheering proudly (and loudly) from the sidelines as he watched his grandkids play sports. He was the kind of Papa who showed up, always supportive, always present, and always proud.

Dan was also incredibly hard working and deeply proud of the business he built alongside his father, Keppens Kar Kare. It wasn’t just a job to him, it was a legacy of dedication, grit, and family, and he took great pride in what they created together.

Dan is survived by his Brother in law John Strecok, Children: daughter Shannon (Joe) Koss; son Dustin (Kristen) Keppen; and daughter Brittany Keppen (Joe Beske). He leaves behind the grandkids who brought him endless happiness: Taylor Brown, Alex Koss, Presley Koss, Emma Keppen, Elliana Keppen, Evelyn Keppen, Kingston Pfaff, and Pepper Pfaff. He is also survived by his beloved dog, Remi (Remington).

He was preceded in death by his parents Joan and Don Keppen, and his sister Judy Strecock.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 21, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Knucklehead Pub in Eagle, Wisconsin. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories (especially hunting stories), and honor Dan in the way he would have wanted-together, remembering the life he lived and the love he gave so freely.

Dan will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in hunting stories told again and again, in cabin trips, in every flea market find, all the dogs who deeply adored him and in the love of the family who knew him as Dad and Papa.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in Dan’s memory to Gundogz Rescue or Waukesha County Humane Animal Welfare Society 

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