Daniel Berry

Daniel "Dan" Berry, age 65, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, at his home overlooking Torch Lake, surrounded by his beloved family. His life revolved around family and friends, and he was known for his gentle, kind, and humorous spirit. 

Dan was born on January 15, 1961, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, the eighth of twelve children born to loving parents Jeanne (Opstad) Berry and the late Richard Berry. The family later moved to North Canton, Ohio, and then to Troy, Michigan, where he spent most of his childhood. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University. In 1992, he married the love of his life, Leanne. The couple relocated to Traverse City, Michigan, in 1997, where Dan worked as a manager at Red Lobster. However, his favorite role was being a dad to his girls, Julia, Sarah, and Lauren. 

Dan was an avid fisherman who cherished summer trips to the Boundary Waters of northern Minnesota and countless days fishing in northern Michigan. He always brought his wife and daughters along, though he never made them touch the bait or the fish. He loved the outdoors and spent his time hunting for morel mushrooms, continuing a passion he shared with his father, cross-country skiing the VASA Trail, and walking his beloved dogs. A lifelong Detroit Tigers fan, Dan loved playing baseball and making trips to Comerica Park to cheer on the Tigers. Though he loved life "up north," he never missed an opportunity to return to Troy to spend time with his family. 

Those who knew Dan will remember how he always showed up: with a phone call, a visit, or a helping hand. He loved hosting family and friends at the cottage, taking guests fishing, walking for ice cream, stargazing—even creating his own constellation, the Possum—and building incredible bonfires where he toasted perfect s'mores and shared stories. He was also passionate about music, attending an impressive number of concerts and playing guitar himself. He loved games of all kinds: game shows, outdoor games, dice, cards, and board games. Above all, Dan deeply cared for the people in his life. He will be remembered for making everyone feel welcomed, valued, and loved. 

In addition to his father, Dan was preceded in death by his brothers, Timothy (Lisa) Berry and Christopher Berry, and his sister, Anne (Gereon Welhouse) Berry. 

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 34 years, Leanne; his daughters, Julia (Adam Meisler), Sarah, and Lauren; his mother, Jeanne Berry; his siblings, Deborah (Denis) Faber, Richard (Valerie Kromer) Berry, Nancy (Lorenzo) Cavazos, Lee (Susanne Kocsis) Berry, Mark Berry, Robin (John Burhenn) Berry, Patrick (Tracey Metry) Berry, and Jonathon Berry; his father- and mother-in-law, George and Pat Giza; his favorite dog, Gracie; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Danny leaves behind family and friends in Troy, Traverse City, and countless other places who will miss him dearly. 

Funeral services will be held on July 6, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church in Traverse City, Michigan, with Father Jarvis officiating. Family and friends may visit from 11:30 a.m. until the time of service at the church.

 A celebration of Dan’s life will be held at the family home in Alden following the funeral service. Family and friends are welcome to attend; please contact the family for additional information. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Dan’s memory to the Alzheimer's Association , in honor of his courageous journey with Alzheimer’s and so that future families may have hope for a world without Alzheimer’s, or to Friends of the Boundary Waters, to help preserve the wilderness Dan loved and where many of his happiest memories were made.

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com