Daniel Staker

Daniel A. Staker, 80, of Old Frontenac, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2024.

Dan was born on November 18, 1943 on the family farm in Garwin, Iowa to Helga (Larsen) and Alvin Staker. He was the third of four children growing up alongside his siblings Diane, Cindy, and Calvin. Dan was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and uncle known for his wit, dedication to family, generosity to friends, and his talents in home improvement. He was a man of few but important words, creativity, intellect, work ethic, and openness to new ideas and technology.

Dan graduated from Reinbeck High School in 1962 and went on to earn a degree in agricultural business from Iowa State University. Following his graduation, he was drafted and served in the U.S. Army for two years. After his military service, Dan furthered his education by earning an MBA from the University of Iowa. He then entered the nascent computer technology industry as a marketing representative in Denver, Iowa. Later, he built homes in the Reinbeck area before moving to Cedar Falls, Iowa, where he worked as a realtor. Eventually, he became a marketing representative for the Iowa Lottery, a position he held for over 20 years, before retiring.

On February 2, 1968, Dan married Lynne (Lorenz) Staker, and together they raised two children, Danielle and Justin. Dan was a dedicated family man who enjoyed various pursuits, including home improvement projects, sailing, traveling, and tinkering around the house. He was an active member of the communities in Cedar Falls, Iowa, and Old Frontenac, Minnesota.

Dan will be missed by many, including his wife, Lynne; children, Danielle (Erik) Calhoun and Justin (Kerri Houck) Staker; four grandchildren, Everett Calhoun and Sawyer, Alice and Freya Staker; a brother, Cal (Joan) Staker, along with many nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Cindy and Diane.

An informal Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 11:30 AM at Old Frontenac Cemetery, followed by a reception at the family home.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Frontenac State Park Association (FSPA, 29223 County 28 Blvd, Old Frontenac, MN 55026) and the Lake City Public Library (201 South High Street, Lake City, MN, 55041).