Daniel Vander Leest

Daniel R. Vander Leest, age 38, passed away unexpectedly, Saturday, March 21, 2015 at his residence. Dan was born in Racine, February 26, 1977, son of Michael and Debra (Nee: Wrycza) Vander Leest.

Dan was a graduate of Washington Park High School “Class of 1995”. He then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and proudly served for 10 years. Furthering his education he graduated from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Dan was currently employed by the Mount Pleasant Highway Department and part-time with Borzynski and Gorton Farms. During the summers he drove the semi truck for the Lighthouse Brigade during their summer tours. Dan was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection. Musically inclined, he enjoyed playing his guitar. Above all he cherished time spent with his family, especially his children. He will be greatly missed.

Survivors include his children, Christopher, Aolani, Camille; his parents, Michael and Debra Vander Leest; brother, Jeffrey and Diana Vander Leest; nephew, R.J.; niece, Natalie; his grandparents, Don and Inge Vander Leest; girlfriend, Paula Lindner; many aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joseph and Marlene Wrycza.

A Memorial Service will be held Thursday, March 26, 2015, 6:00 P.M. at the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, 322 Ohio Street, with Rev. Roger Black officiating. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Thursday at the church from 3:30 P.M. until time of service at 6:00 P.M. Private interment with Full Military Honors will be held at the Southern Wisconsin Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, Town of Dover. Memorials to the family have been suggested for an education fund to be established for his children.