Daniel Louisel

Daniel (Danny) Clare Louisell was born in Kalamazoo, MI to Lucille and James Louisell, M.D. on November 29, 1957, and died in Santa Barbara, California on August 8, 2026. He was the eighth of ten children and grew up in an interesting but turbulent family.

Danny graduated from Portage Northern High School in 1976 where he won distinction on the swimming team. In 1987, Danny's former high school counselor told his sister-in-law that he was one of the brightest students she had worked with at Northern.

Danny's parents divorced in 1969, and he chose to stay with his father who practiced free-range parenting.

Danny was fortunate to have a superior brain and handsome looks. His high school years were filled with good times and many friendships. He will be remembered as someone who frequently displayed a wry smile that led you to believe he knew something you didn't.

Danny is survived by his nine siblings and their spouses: Stephen (Elaine) Louisell of Kalamazoo; Ruth Levine of Reseda, CA; Michael Louisell of Kalamazoo; Christopher (Alexandra) Louisell of Red Bluff, CA; Marie (Gary) Norton of Ventura, CA; Thomas (Andrea) Louisell of Beverton, OR; Philip Louisell of Camarillo, CA; Anne Louisell and James Brinkley of Cypress, CA; and Charles Louisell and Danielle Kuzma of Kalamazoo. Both his parents, numerous aunts and uncles, and two brothers-in-law preceded him in death.

Danny's life and Jackson Browne's lyrics remind us that "They say in the end it's the wink of an eye." Peace, brother.