Daniel D. Kratzer

Daniel David Kratzer, 76, of Terre Haute died peacefully at home on Friday, October 9, 2020 after a long battle with COPD.

Dan was a 1962 graduate of Gerstmeyer High School.  He was an accomplished professional truck driver for over thirty years, marking more than three million miles over the course of his career.

Dan was passionate about the things and people he loved, including boating on the Wabash River, cheering on the Sycamores, Pacers and Cardinals, and grilling for the family at numerous family dinners.  He also enjoyed traveling to see his out-of-town children in Santa Fe, New Mexico and Rochester, New York and vacationing with his wife and family in the Great Smoky Mountains and other beautiful places.  He especially loved taking it slow along the backroads.

Dan was well-loved by family and friends, and will be greatly missed.  He is survived by his children, Danelle Giannini of Rochester, NY; LiAnne Morales of Santa Fe, NM; Derek Kratzer of Terre Haute; Stephanie Longyear of Terre Haute; Jon Williams of Terre Haute; Paul Williams of Terre Haute; and twelve exceedingly well-loved grandchildren, Brittany James, Mariah Adams, Eryan Matveeva, Zane and Jacob Kratzer, Madison Hensley, Carina and Gabe Giannini, Liliana and Sophia Morales, Nathaniel and Gabriella Williams.

He is also survived by his mother, Ruth Kratzer of Clinton, IN; his sister, Bonnie Ave of Clinton; his sister-in-law and enthusiastic traveling companion, Phyllis Kratzer of Omro, WI; and three highly indulged cats – Sammy, Shadow, and Stormy.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Terrie Kratzer; his father, David C. Kratzer; and his brother, Dennis J. Kratzer.

Private services for the family will be held at Maryland Community Church.  If friends so desire, memorial contributions may be made to Compassion International or WTIU Public Broadcasting. Online condolences may be made to www.samaritanfunerals.com.

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