header 1
header 2
header 3

In Memoriam

Daniel Alan Rademacher - Class Of 1987

Daniel Alan Rademacher, son of David and Faye (Hillstead) Rademacher, was born 8 July 1969, Michigan.  He graduated in 1987 from Okemos High School.

Daniel married, second time around, Melissa Raseman, 9 May 2014.  He successfully blended two families and the marriage was a happy one.

Daniel, age 48, died 18 August 2017, Plainwell, Allegan County, Michigan, inurnment unknown.

LIFE STORY FUNERAL HOMES - RUPERT, DURHAM, MARSHALL & GREN, PLAINWELL, MICHIGAN

Daniel Alan Rademacher was a passionate person. When reflecting on his life, words such as caring, easy going, quick witted, and fun-loving come to mind, however, perhaps the word that paints the most vivid picture of him is hardworking. He was always looking for ways to give to others whether his family, his friends, or others within his greater community. A longtime resident of the community he loved, Daniel was a friend to all and a stranger to none. There simply wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do for anyone in need. Deeply loved, he will be greatly missed by the many lives he touched over the years, especially the wonderful family he leaves behind.

It seems only fitting that Daniel’s story began during a time that was as colorful as he was. It was the 1960’s when many Americans believed they were standing at the dawn of a golden age. By 1969, Woodstock attracts more than 350,000 rock-n-roll fans and Neil Armstrong and Edwin 'Buzz' Aldrin became the first humans to set foot on the Moon just days after Daniel arrived on July 8th to his loving parents, David and Faye (Hillstead) Rademacher. During a promising decade in our nation’s history, his birth brought them much joy and happiness!

Born the youngest of three children, he later became a member of a blended family of siblings between the remarriages of both sides of his family. As a young teen, he was active in many sports. He loved baseball, football, and basketball, yet wrestling was by far his favorite! Proudly graduating with the Class of 1987 from Okemos High School he launched a career as a tool and die maker following in his father’s footsteps. Later, he moved his way into management where he was well liked by his co workers. Starting out at Auto Die in Grand Rapids, he was happy to have finally arrived in a field where he felt confident. There, he learned about the first generation Dodge Viper hood as well as techniques and knowledge that would aid in his success for years to come. He held a strong work ethic and shared a similar position that his dad held with General Motors which strengthened the bond between the two of them over the years.

Dan’s kind-hearted and loving manner made him an excellent father, and great provider. His son, Daniel II, and daughter, Devon were from his first marriage. He wanted nothing more than the very best for the two of them. Later, he met Melissa Raseman on an online dating site, Match.com and the two of them hit it off from their very first meeting at Uccello’s Ristorante in Wayland! Dating for just six months, they knew they were a special match and not wanting to waste any time, they joined in marriage on May 9, 2014. Their union joined her three children; Andrew, Owen, Ian with his two children completing their family of five! Later, they were blessed with a son of their own, Jaxon who brought great joy to their growing family. Much like his grandfather, Otto Hillstead, who modeled unconditional love and acceptance, Dan was always even keeled and never raised his voice.

A strong provider to his family, Dan worked with GRW Technologies as a project and sales manager. His work took him to Germany many times for special workshops and trainings where he loved to learn more about cars! His first 1970 Chevelle, sparked his love of cars! There wasn’t any make or model that he didn’t study or know pretty much everything about! He loved to attend area car shows and often had car envy when he saw the newer models being rolled off the lines! In addition to his love of cars, he also loved his food! Dan was an exceptional cook and had perfected the most delicious homemade Mac and Cheese and some of the best tasting burgers in town! When it came time to go out to eat, he favored the Outback steakhouse. As a matter of fact, Dan loved treating his kids out to dinner and enjoyed trying new foods at different places around town.

Dan was a great husband, dad, son, and brother. He had the type of personality that was rare nowadays. He could easily be trusted, was accepting of others, and above all else, genuine. No one ever questioned where they stood with Dan as he gave so freely of himself and his resources. Loving, kind-hearted, and caring he leaves behind so many memorable moments shared with his close family and special friends. He will be fondly remembered as a lover of all people and his story will be shared for generations to come.

Daniel Alan Rademacher, of Plainwell, passed away on Friday, August 18, 2017, at the age of 48. He is survived by his wife, Melissa; three children: Daniel Rademacher, II, of OH; Devon Rademacher, of Mt. Pleasant; and Jaxon Rademacher; three stepchildren: Andrew, Owen, and Ian Raseman. He is also survived by his parents: David (Donna) Rademacher, of FL and Faye Brusso, of Frederic; siblings: Dottie (Jeff) Lane, of Frederic; Dave (Joyce) Rademacher, of IN; step-siblings: Kris, Terry, Larry and Suzy; and many nieces and nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his stepdad, Larry Brusso and step brother, Danny Lee. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 26, 2017, at 11 am at the Life Story Funeral Home, 120 S. Woodhams, Plainwell (269-685-5881).