Daniel Arthur Blimling

Daniel Arthur Blimling of Racine, WI passed away Friday evening, August 20th, at his home in Racine while surrounded by his family and loved ones. He was 58. Dan, the eldest of four siblings, was born August 22, 1951 in Jacksonville, IL to Arthur Wayne and Velma Louise (nee Alhorn) Blimling. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather-to-be, and friend. Dan grew up in rural Central Illinois, and became an accomplished horseman at a young age. After graduating from Jacksonville High School in 1969, he attended Illinois College in Jacksonville, becoming a member of the Gamma Nu Literary Society and graduating with a B.A. in Speech and Drama in 1973. While attending Illinois College, Dan met Clara Elizabeth 'Beth' Campbell, whom he married in 1974. Dan's love of serving others propelled him to a successful career in the food service industry. He held positions as a food service manager in Macomb, Bloomington, and Springfield, IL. He also owned and operated two restaurants for several years in Bloomington. From January 1992 until May 2010, Dan was the Resident District Manager for Chartwells, the food service provider for Racine Unified School District, where he always took great pride in 'feeding the kids'. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dan was a dedicated volunteer who believed in the value of community service. He was involved with the Hugh O'Brien Youth Foundation, the Appalachia Service Project, and the Jaycees, with whom he was awarded a JCI Senatorship. He was an active member of Franksville United Methodist Church where he served as lay leader, organized the annual youth mission trips, and oversaw countless fundraisers at the church. Recent years provided Dan with the opportunity to pursue another of his life's great passions. He played guitar and sang with the Root River Band, performing the Rock music of the 1960s and 70s that provided the soundtrack to much of his life. The concerts performed throughout Wisconsin with his good friends in the band were the realization of a lifelong dream for Dan. Dan is survived by his wife, Beth; his two sons, Mike and John; his sister, Jean; and his brother, JT. He was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Velma, and his brother, Roger. A visitation will be held Wednesday, August 25, at Franksville United Methodist Church, 10402 Northwestern Avenue, from 3:30 to 6:30pm with a memorial service to follow. Rev. Kaye Glennon will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Youth Missions at Franksville United Methodist Church. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Choi and all of the Nurses at the Cancer Center, Mary at Wheaton Franciscan Hospice, Laura Hertz, and Anna.

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Daniel Arthur Blimling

August 22, 1951 - August 20, 2010