Brooklyn Park, MN - Dan (a.k.a. Danny, Dan the Man, Dano, Grandpa-saurus) was born in Minneapolis, MN, on November 29, 1945 to parents Fidelis and Loretta. He grew up on family farms in Hamel and Plymouth, MN, as one of eight children. He attended and graduated from St. John's Prep School and St. John's University, receiving a B.A. in History. Dan proudly served in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Turkey from 1969-1972.

After service, Dan worked construction, bartended at Media Ballroom, and was an announcer for the Hamel Hawks baseball team. He began working for the Hamel Post Office as a clerk and substitute carrier before moving to the Buffalo Post Office. There, he was rural carrier manager for 40 years.

Dan married Gretchen Utecht in 1980, and they had two children: Adam and Regina. Dan was a loving and loyal husband and father. He worked hard, provided for his family, and took pride in homeownership. Dan's two grandchildren Owen and Isla were the light of his life.

Dan was known for his love of music, particularly rock n' roll. In college, he was the manager of his friends' local band named The Elegents. As an adult, Dan learned guitar and played in his church choir for 30 years. Dan loved attending any live music show and was a master at music trivia.

Dan loved many other things, including nature (especially birds), long bike rides, traveling, exploring spirituality, cheering on Minnesota sports teams, watching horror movies and westerns, and playing Cribbage and Euchre. He was also a dedicated member of Sahara Club AA for seven years and found great meaning in his AA ministry. Most of all, Dan enjoyed gathering with his large family and many friends and listening to peoples' stories.

Dan passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026, due to complications from heart surgery. He is survived by his wife Gretchen nee. Utecht, son Adam Eckes (Alison), daughter Regina Eckes (Travis Ahrens), two grandchildren Owen (7) and Isla (5); siblings Sr. Lois Eckes, Laura O'Rourke, Lucia Leck, Joyce Eckes (Eric Michelsen), Joan Elliott, Jane Etzel Eckes, and Ralph Eckes (Julie), as well as many cousins, in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Dan will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a loyal brother, a kind uncle, a guiding coworker, and a dear friend. He was the salt of the earth, exemplifying pillars of strength, thoughtfulness, and humor. His gentle heart shaped many lives.

A celebration of Dan's life will be held at St. Barnabas Lutheran Church in Plymouth, MN, on Saturday, March 21, 2026. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. A luncheon, tribute video, and time for sharing stories will take place following the service.

Dan will be interred at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in St. Paul, MN, later this summer.