Daniel J. Stretmater

Dan passed peacefully, surrounded by family, as The Lord's Prayer was spoken at his bedside - a fitting close to a life marked by devotion and quiet service.Born in Washington, D.C., he attended Catholic U., where he met Mary McCandless (Sis), the love of his life. In their early years they loved dancing the night away to Big band. They married in 1950 and raised eleven children. After Sis's death in 1972, when their youngest was only six, Dan guided the family with disciplined love, leading by example more than words.A World War II veteran, he studied physics on the GI Bill and worked as a designer and program manager in naval surface weaponry, applying his analytical mind to complex defense systems.In 1960 the family settled in Clarksville, Maryland, where Dan served as a Catholic deacon for over 30 years. He married couples, baptized children, preached, and walked with families through life's joys and sorrows.In 2011 he moved to Red Rocks Ranch in Monument, Colorado, where neighbors often saw him riding his recumbent bike well into his 100th year.A lifelong reader and deep thinker, he admired Ralph Waldo Emerson and valued the pursuit of truth. He listened more than he spoke; when he did speak, his words were measured and wise. He believed trust in the Lord must be lived daily.Preceded in death by children Pete, Kate, and Marna, he is survived by Cass, Steve, Mike, Andie, Jody, Toni, Lori, Jeanne, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.His legacy is enduring love, service, and compassion. He and Sis are surely dancing the night away once more.Viewing will be at Donaldson's Funeral Home in Clarksville MD, March 13th 11am - 1PM, with graveside service immediately following.