September 13, 2024 – Kewaskum, WI – Daniel “Dan” C. Survis, 78, of Kewaskum, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous eight-year battle with Alzheimer’s.
He was born on January 15, 1946, to the late Forest F. and Ruth C. (nee Bandle) Survis in West Bend. Daniel was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in West Bend, WI. He graduated 8th grade from St. John’s in 1960 and was a proud 1964 graduate of Kewaskum High School.
From a young age, Daniel took pride in helping his uncles on their farms and was involved in various sports. As the second oldest, he took on the responsibility of helping raise his siblings. After high school, Daniel began his career as a Tool and Die apprentice at West Bend Company in 1964. In 1965, he was drafted into the United States Army, serving as a Combat Engineer with Battalion Unit 588 from 1965 to 1967 with one tour in Vietnam. He achieved the rank of Sergeant (E-5) during his service. After his military service, Daniel resumed his career, retiring from West Bend/Regal Ware after 48 years as a Tool and Die Maker.
In 1968, Daniel married his childhood sweetheart and the love of his life, Judy Franzen. Their bond, which began when they were neighbors, grew into a lifelong love, and they were united in holy matrimony at St. John’s Lutheran Church in West Bend on September 28, 1968. Over their 56 years of marriage, Daniel and Judy cherished their travels across the country and enjoyed memorable cruises with family and friends.
Daniel had an infectious personality, always offering a smile and lending a helping hand. His ability to form friendships with everyone he met was one of his most endearing traits. A lover of the outdoors, Daniel found great joy in fishing, hunting, and simply appreciating nature.
His love for bonfires, storytelling, making wine and sharing a drink with friends showcased his warm and social nature, leaving lasting memories with all who knew him. Daniel also enjoyed listening to classic country music and watching western movies, taking comfort in the stories and melodies that spoke to him.
Most of all, he cherished the moments spent with his beloved wife, Judy, their children, and grandchildren, who were the light of his life. His family was his greatest joy, and he found immense happiness in creating lasting memories with them.
Daniel’s memory will forever be cherished by his beloved wife Judy; his four children, Tina Survis, Danette (Scott) Neuendorf, Christine Survis, and Daniel (Billye) Survis; six grandchildren, Jessica (Angela) Gonzalez, Mackenzie, Riley, and Braeden Neuendorf, Ethan, and Elynn Survis; two great-grandchildren, Avien and Jaxiah Gonzalez; his brother, Bruce (Judy) Survis; two sisters, Sue (Wayne) Kleinmann and Alice (Andrew) Breit; brothers-in-law Douglas (Dawn) Franzen and Frankie Bauer; sisters-in-law Darlene (Ronnie) Aupperle, Roxanne (Joe) Sterr, Pauline Franzen, Sandra Survis and Mary Survis; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends. He also leaves behind his military brothers, Grayson Whisenant, John Berry, Harold Stringfield, Ivan Swope, Tony Beder, and Bob Everett, as well as his fishing buddies, Doug Franzen, Bruno Schmidtke, and Jim Ciriacks.
Daniel was preceded in death by his parents, Forest and Ruth Survis; parents-in-law, Edward and Leona Franzen; three brothers, Steven, Gene, and Michael Survis; two sisters, Sheila Bauer and Mary Anne Survis; along with several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Daniel was a proud lifetime member of VFW Post 1393 and will be remembered for his dedication to his family, friends, and country.
VISITATION: The family will greet relatives and friends at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 809 S. Sixth Ave., West Bend, on Saturday, Sept 21, 2024, from 10 a.m. until 11:45 a.m.
SERVICE: A memorial service for Daniel will be at the church at 12 p.m.
The family would like to thank Horizon Hospice for their assistance at home care with Daniel the past few months. Their kindness will always be remembered along with Pastor Steven Reynolds for all his spiritual help and care.
Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Daniel’s arrangements. Additional information and Tribute Wall may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.
