Forever cherished, Daniel Wanzung passed away as he lived, surrounded by love, family, and faith. Born December 2, 1927, in Chicago, Illinois, to Joseph and Barbara (Endres) Wanzung, he grew up in the city and developed a lifelong love for fishing and the outdoors during trips to his family’s cabin on Big McKenzie Lake in Spooner, Wisconsin.

In Chicago, Dan attended Knickerbocker and Murphy grammar schools, where he was recognized for his lovely singing voice—a gift that would eventually lead him to meet the love of his life, Gloria Nielsen. Dan and Gloria first met in the church choir and were married in 1961. They were blessed with 63 years of a loving marriage, including five children.

A graduate of Lane Technical High School in 1945, Dan proudly served in the U.S. Army. He used the GI Bill to earn degrees from Michigan State, Northwestern, and DePaul universities. Dan, an avid bowler, returned to Lane Tech, spending over 30+ years teaching Biology and coaching the Bowling Team.

After retiring, Dan and Gloria moved to their family cabin on Big McKenzie Lake, the place he cherished since childhood. There, he continued to teach his family through how he lived – how to work hard and face challenges, how to approach life with positivity and a sense of humor.Whether sharing fishing tips, pointing out a bird or tree, or finding clever solutions to life’s challenges, Dan always made everyone feel at ease and well taken-care-of, turning ordinary moments into cherished memories with his kindness and laughter.

Although Dan will be deeply missed for the great man he was, his family and friends will honor his memory, and his love will live in their hearts forever.

Dan is survived by his wife Gloria, and children; Dawn (Michael) Richter, Gail (late Robert) Trenkenschu, Daniel (Patricia) Wanzung, Brenda (Troy) Davies, and Joanne (Mitchell) Lang; sixteen grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his stepmother Elizabeth, and his brothers Joseph, Charles, and Mathias.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, December 14, at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Bratley-Nelson Funeral Home, 306 Rusk Street, Spooner, WI 54801.

Interment: Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery at a later date.

The family requests that anyone who wishes may make a donation to a charity of their choice.

Last Update: Dec 10, 2024 1:21 pm CST