Bartow, FL/Sparta, NY:  At age 70, Dan passed peacefully on January 20, 2024 at Good Shepard Hospice in Auburndale, FL.  He was born on October 3, 1953 in Clifton Springs, NY to parents William and Ann Ruth (Havert) VanOoyen.  He was predeceased by his mother Ann Ruth VanOoyen.  Survived by children; Laurie (Sean) Friedo of Bozeman, MT and Jake VanOoyen of Marion, NY; granddaughter Hanna Friedo; loving companion Maxine Murray; father William VanOoyen; siblings, Karen (A.C.) Ophoff of MI and Eric (Nancy) VanOoyen of East Palmyra; also survived by nieces, nephews, and many other loving family and friends.

Dan grew up in East Palmyra, and attended Newark High School and later lived in Marion and Sparta, NY where he worked heavy construction before permanently moving to Bartow, FL where he spent his retirement years.  He was a member of the Operating Engineers and could operate (and fix) just about anything out there.    He never left home without his tools and could help you fix anything.  He made a hobby out of adding his own personal touches to everything and often referred to them as “Danning it up.”  Very little of what he bought stayed as the factory made it and he was always innovating to make things work better for him.  He loved a good laugh and poking fun at those around him, especially Buffalo Bills fans and was never steered away from a good political conversation or debate.  Anyone who knew Dan was very aware that Ford was the only truck out there worth anything. Although he loved spending time outdoors hunting in his younger days, Florida weather quickly became his favorite and he loved to fish year round there.  When neighbors needed help he was always there to lend a hand and loved to chat with anyone.  His Faith kept him going knowing that God was in charge and he would often end conversations with his kids saying “The good Lord is still on the Throne”.  His love of family and friends was always felt by all who knew and loved him.  He will be greatly missed.

At Dan’s request, no calling hours or formal funeral service will be held.  A Graveside Service to Remember his Life will be held at 11 am on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at East Palmyra Cemetery, East Palmyra, NY.  Memorial contributions may be made to the East Palmyra Christian School, 2023 E. Palmyra Port Gibson Road, Palmyra, NY 14522 or to George C. Forsythe Hospice House through Good Shepherd Hospice at www.chaptershealth.org.  To send a condolence or share a memory please visit:  www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com