Daniel Franklin "Dan" Webster

Daniel Franklin Webster, age 77, of Battle Creek passed away early Monday morning, June 22, 2015 at the Bronson at Home Good Samaritan Hospice Residence after a lengthy illness. Dan was born on January 3, 1938 in Battle Creek to David Albert and Violet Mae (Taylor) Webster. In 1956, he graduated from Battle Creek Central High School. Dan was united in marriage to Joy Elaine Schaffhauser, August 6, 1960, who survives.

Dan began working at the young age of 15 at the Thompson Food Market and then Union Pump Co. In June 1956 he joined the Air National Guard and served at the Air National Guard Base for thirty years. He retired from the Battle Creek Federal Center in 1992 with 36 years of government service.

One of Dan's special loves was the fall season in the Upper Peninsula. He traveled to the family's cottage beginning at the age of four for all family vacations in the fall and summer. Dan's hobby of hunting and fishing led him to many trips also with his brother in law, son in law, and brother in Montana. Countless trips were made to Mackinac Island with his wife and children.

Dan was a member of the Senior Tour Club for several years and cruised to Alaska with his wife and the group of friends they met. He spent time vacationing in Auburndale and Orlando, Florida visiting his grandchildren and being present for their first trips to Disney World. He adored his children and grandchildren and enjoyed attending dance recitals, athletic events, birthdays, and holidays until his illness. He was always there for them when they were ill or hurt and was a great "pop pop" and influence in all their lives.

Besides his hobbies of hunting and fishing, he golfed in his younger years and bowled in the Merchant Bowling League. He traveled with the league to various states for tournaments. Dan had a special interest in antiques and collecting, and while attending sales met many new friends and acquaintances.

He is survived by his wife, Joy, daughters: Rebecca (Bill) Reilly of Valparaiso, IN; Marcia Webster of Battle Creek; brother, Larry Webster of Red Lodge, Montana; grandchildren, William, Patrick and Rachel Reilly; brother in law, Glenn Stevens of Battle Creek and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Dan fought a good fight with his illness and God has taken him to his new home with no more suffering and pain. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

The visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25 from 5:00-7:00 pm at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care in Battle Creek. His funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 26 at the funeral home with Reverend James Codde officiating. Interment will be at Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, it was Dan's wish that you make memorial donations to Binder Park Zoo and Bronson at Home Hospice. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.