Monday, May 15, 2023
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Dan rescued me from the Colorado mountains when I slid off a trail in heavy snow with my new truck. I called out using my ham radio. He was the only voice on the other end and worked for hours with the forest service to help me get safely home. Our friendship was formed. I knew I had met a special person.
Shortly after, I learned what a great man Dad was and how much we had in common. Radios, target practice, RC planes, and so much more. We would have lunch at the Village Inn hear his house and was sometimes joined by his wonderful wife, Jan, shown in the picture. My mother met Jan and they made a connection. Mom speaks highly of Jan and how she could put up with Dan and me together!
When I moved from Colorado to Arizona for my job, Dan gave me support and comforting advice, and went out of his way to ensure my truck was stored properly until I could pick it up, even offering his backyard (it did not fit!). On a trip back to Colorado, Jan and Dan took me in for a week, Jan made wonderful dinners, we watched TV and exchanged personal stories, and I spent countless hours with Dan, just two guys sharing our interests and respect for each other.
He looked to me to help with his plane, and just picking out the landing lights made me feel good I could help and Dan appreciated that. Dan asked me to design an antenna he used on the plane and also a ham radio antenna for the backyard. Jan was so understanding with the backyard wire and two milk jugs hanging to support the beastly structure (although she appreciated us painting them black so they were less visible!). It was yet another project Dan and I worked on with mutual respect.
We confided in each other and he was my best friend. I could talk to him about anything and always made time for me. I always regarded Dan as an intelligent, humble, caring, and dependable friend that I was lucky to have rescued me from the mountains. So humble, in fact, he never mentioned his masters degree.
Thank you Dan for your friendship, it was cut short but I am blessed with the memories. Rest in Peace my friend, I miss you very much. Your friend, Greg
CALL: (720) 248-0771
