Daniel "Dan" Menzia

Dan was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Adam and Emily Menzia on April 9, 1963. He grew up in Cudahy with his four siblings, attending Notre Dame High School in Milwaukee.  Dan married his soul mate, Trish, on October 20 th, 1990. They resided in Watertown, Wisconsin for 9 years, lovingly attempting to restore a 100-year-old farmhouse that became the venue for many wonderful family parties and 4th of July celebrations. It was here they welcomed their children, Caleb, Hannah and Olivia, but soon after the birth of the twins, they realized their dream of moving to Boulder Junction, Wisconsin.

Nothing made Dan happier than spending time with his family, finding joy in the simple things such as sharing a meal, watching TV, attending the kids sporting and school events or playing tour guide and driving visiting family and friends around the area, looking for the white deer. His kindness, smile and sense of humor lit up a room and he loved to make people happy. He showed his love through his gentle spirit, kind words, silly antics and quiet strength.

Dan was a meat cutter for 43 years, most recently serving customers at Village Market in Manitowish Waters. He had a faithful following of regular customers and he was so happy and proud to provide them with whatever they needed, accompanied by a smile and often a song.  He became affectionately known as the “Singing Butcher.” Dan was blessed with a beautiful voice and we were all blessed that he freely and happily shared that with us. He was incredibly proud to have been able to sing the National Anthem at the opening of his son’s hockey and baseball games.

Dan was a Boy Scout throughout his childhood and was proud to have achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. His dad was his troop leader and Dan had many fond memories of his fishing trips to Canada with the troop, skits and service projects. We spent many hours the last few months listening to his often hilarious stories of their antics and the time spent with his dad and fellow scouts.

He was a lifelong hunter and fisherman and looked forward to the annual hunting trip to the farm in La Crosse, though to be honest, he said the hunting was secondary. It was the time spent with Caleb, his dad, his brother, uncles and cousins that brought him the greatest joy. (Well, that and the shots of blackberry brandy.)

Dan faced many physical challenges the past few years and by his side every step of the way were his kids. He told Trish often they were his pride and joy and he was humbled by their devotion and the selflessness they showed every single day.

Dan was preceded in death by his grandparents, his in-laws, Don and Lois Strehlow, to whom he was extremely devoted, his beloved uncle by marriage, Paul Brenner, brother-in-law Paul Strehlow and best friend and guiding spirit, Luke Roehrig.

He is survived by his wife, Trish and children, Caleb, Hannah and Olivia. He is also survived by his parents Adam and Emily (nee Heidorn) Menzia, sisters Julie (Jeff) Wiza, Jill (Tom) Malkiewicz, Janet (Kyle) Hoffmann and brother Doug (Kristin) Menzia. He is further survived by sister-in-law Peggy (Clarence) Izydorski, Peter (Cathy) Strehlow, Tim (Linda) Strehlow, Chris Strehlow and his fur grandbabies Rhett, Monty and Pippin. He is also survived by beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorial Gathering for Dan will be held on Saturday, July 20th at Nimsgern Funeral Home Chapel in Woodruff, WI from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon with a Memorial Service at 12:00 noon.  Dan would prefer if everyone wore casual attire.

The family would like to thank Margaret Alvarez, NP at Aspirus for her compassionate care and guidance through these last few months. They would like to express their love and gratitude to the Maurer family and Trish and Hannah’s Camp Manito-wish family for their unwavering love and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network are greatly appreciated.

“You’re the story of my life and every word is true. Each chapter sings your name, each page begins with you.”

Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com

NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.