It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Danny Joe Kegel after a long battle against Parkinson's. He peacefully, and finally free of pain, departed this life on March 21st at the age of 76. Dan was a dedicated farmer and rancher who tended to the gifts of nature and God to provide for his, and his family's, prosperity. He spent countless hours nurturing crops and caring for livestock, embodying the timeless traditions of agriculture. He worked hard, persevered, and forged a deep connection to the land that will live on in those who continue to till and tame that ground. Dan was a long-time member of the American Lutheran Church of Turner, Montana. He served the church and its community over the course of his life in various capacities. The church, and his service to it, was a source of pride and strength that endured throughout his life. While Dan may have faced challenges in life, he leaves behind cherished memories among those who knew him best. He would never pass up an opportunity for conversation, and passed many hours around the dinner table, the church office, and the rolled down windows of a roadside pickup chatting with anyone who would stop by. His presence will be dearly missed by his friends, family, and fellow farmers. Dan is survived by sons Mark Kegel, Clancy Kegel, and Kevin Leo, his brother Kerry Kegel, and his sister Nancy Schafer, and all their wives and husbands. He leaves behind 4 grandchildren: Christopher Leo, Kristen Leo, Theodore Kegel, and Alfred Kegel. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ken Kegel and Clarice Kegel, his son Scott Leo, and his ex-wife Karen Kegel.
A private memorial service to celebrate the life of Dan will be held at a later date. May he rest in peace.