Birth date: Dec 29, 1951 Death date: Jan 7, 2013
Daniel R. Burggraaf, 61, of Clinton, died Monday, January 7, 2013 at his home in Clinton. Funeral Services will be 1:00pm, Friday, January 11, 2013 at the Clinton Chapel Snell-Zornig Funeral Homes & Crematory. Burial will follow Read Obituary
I love you and miss you very much, we had some great times traveling and camping all over the western states. You made me happy, and taught me a lot . I miss you dan xoxoxo
Dan was a CHS classmate, as well as Washington Junior High classmate,--we shared Industrial Arts classes, gym, football teams...etc. I lost contact with him a few years after High School. He always greeted me with a friendly smile or handshake--a good person ! To his family I'd like to extend my deepest sympathy and want you to know that I'll keep him in my prayers. Sincerely, Greg Graf--Class of 1971.
THE CARPENTER
When I think of Dan several work and character traits come to mind.
Dan had the trust to many people. His previous landlord decided to sell the house Dan was renting. He said to me: "I trust Dan and he is the only one I would offer to sell this house to, because I can trust him". He also had the trust of people he did carpentry work for and much of his work was repeat business. I could trust Dan to be a steady companion.
Dan was loyal to his Mother he would visit Mother on a regular basis and always be there for her.
He was soooo helpful. Always willing to pitch in as we spent time on the farm.
I always marveled how Dan would talk to customers and be friendly, courteous and always kind.
Dan would share what ever he had. He would give even when it might not be in his best interests.
Dan had a deep appreciation for God.
He was so brave. He had many trials in his life. So much more than I have had. Dan knew his health was failing. He never once complained. He looked it straight in the eye and pushed forward. The toxins in his blood from his failing liver clouded his thinking. but he pushed on. Getting up everyday and putting on his tool belt and was there for me his friends and others.
He had a dry humor. Once when we were working he crossthreaded a bolt and I then chided him everytime after that and would say "Dont cross thread it!". He then would respond at other times by smiling and saying to me "Don't cross thread it!"
He was the so witty at family events and would just say things out of the blue that would get us all laughing.
His talents were many. He excelled in sports. He played the guitar and sang is his younger years. He had exceptional business skills.
Above all Dan was a carpenter. A noble profession chosen be our Lord and Savior during his time on earth.
As Dans health failed I worried that he would have to hang up his tool belt, but he pressed on overcoming so many obstacles. His body was in pain. He mind was cloudy. but he pressed on. Always being there, always offering to help, always giving, always being my brother. I am going to miss him so.
Jon Burggraaf
Dan was a kind,gentle man with a sense of great off the wall humor. Dan and I and my son worked together all this past summer on a house just north of DeWitt. He was a talented craftsman and worked very hard. There will never be another like him. I have been blessed to have known him and will miss his smile and chiding. I will not be able to attend the service but I want the family to know how much he enriched our lives and helped us learn about his passion. We will miss him so much. God's speed Dan!!
You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May the Lord surround you with His comfort and precious peace -- Love U. Bob & A Bonnie & cousins
