Name: Cook Funeral Home & Cremation Services — Grandville Chapel
Address: Grandville, MI

You have my deepest sympathy. I always appreciated dan's passion for life and theatre.

 Posted by Geoff Brown - st. petersburg, florida November 13, 2002

You have my deepest sympathy. Dan had a love of life and others that he shared with us that I will never forget. Just weeks ago he so touched me by greeting me at our high school reunion with a picture of us from a grade school play the picture had made it in the local paper because of Dan's stage command I am sure. That he wanted to share that picture and that memory says a million words I can not find to express about Dan. If a love of others is the measure of a good and full life here on this earth, then Dan's life was complete even though cut short, for many people will live many more years and not touch as many people as Dan did in his short life.
 Dan, the world feels a lot less full today because you have left us. 
 God be with you and you with God - for God so loved the world that God was with us here on earth in you. 
 Lynne

 Posted by Lynne D. Mapes-Riordan nee Mapes - Evanston, IL November 13, 2002

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Dan had an amazing gift in working with children and our two daughters, Kassidy and Dakota loved him dearly. Their faces lit up with enthusiasm every time they spoke about Dan. Just being in his presence, you could sence his passion for music and theatre and kids. In the short time he was with us on Earth, he made an enourmous contribution to our children and to our community. He will be missed and the many things he has taught us and our children will live on.
 Kim and Rob Bernard

 Posted by Kim Bernard - Grand Rapids, MI November 14, 2002

Mr. Dan was very special to our family. Anna, age 3, and Benjamin, age 5, both loved Mr. Dan very much. When Mr. Dan ate meals with his "kids" he sat in the little, tiny chairs as big as life to all of the children. We saw him quite often at Rockford Childcare, where he would breeze in to school each morning with his hair blowing behind him, with a huge, giant morning smile on his face. We asked Mr. Dan one day to take some special time with Benjamin with singing and art. Benjamin did not think that the arts were as important as reading an math. Mr. Dan did as he promised. On the Friday before he passed away, Benjamin and Mr. Dan spent special time together at BAC walking with nature and doing art. By the next Monday, Benjamin decided that he wanted to be an artist and an actor when he grows up...just like Mr. Dan. Benjamin's kindergarten teacher shared with us about the REMARKABLE difference in Benjamin's attitude toward his drawing and singing over the last few weeks. We give the credit for that to Mr. Dan. We believe that Mr. Dan was a true angel here on earth, sent by GOD. Thank you, Gillisse family, for sharing your wonderful son with us. Here is a poem about Mr. Dan from our family to yours: 
 DAN, DAN THE MUSIC MAN by The Sleeper Family, Benjamin, age 5, and Anna, Age 3
 Dan, Dan the music man when a child would'nt sing he said, "YOU CAN!"
 He had a beautiful smile and a huge heart, you know. Dan was a very talented actor. He captured our hearts with his ugly ducking show.
 A sweet hummingbird was his very likeness; flying from child to child spreading love and kindness.
 Dan sang like a bird and he didn't need words. We'll miss our Dan a lot... now he's in heaven with God.
 God Bless all of you... The Sleepers 11-14-02

 Posted by The Sleeper Family - Rockford, MI November 14, 2002

Robin, You and yours are in our prayers. Hold tight to each other. We wish you only happy memories.

 Posted by Friends @ Millhon Clinic - Columbus, OH November 14, 2002

My thoughts and prayers go to Jack and Rose and the entire family for the loss of Dan. I have known Dan since we were about 6 years old. I have so many memories of Dan. Dan was a true and very compassionate person. He had a passion for acting and entertaining others. I will truly miss him. The last time I saw him was at our high school reunion. It felt like old times. He was happy to share stories about our high school productions. God Bless You Dan and everyhting you did to make other people happy and feel worthwhile.
 Cyndi

 Posted by Cyndi VanderVeen-Hartley - Grandville, MI November 14, 2002

Mr. Dan was an awesome BAC teacher. You are wonderful and we will miss you very much. Arianna thinks you have wings now. We will pray for your family.

 Posted by Connor and Arianna Thelen - Rockford, MI November 14, 2002

My son Jared had Dan as a music teacher and so much more! when he was in preschool last year. His favorite song was the "Nut Song" and he'd sing it over and over until we were all sick of it :- Just last week Jared was saying how he missed "Mr. Dan, the Music Man". Dan was a fantastic person who really touched the lives of the children he worked with. All of the children loved him. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

 Posted by Christi Stull - Rockford, MI November 14, 2002

Christmas won't be the same without our "Dan Dan the music man"! Both my children love music and performing thanks to Dan's early influence. We are so thankful he shared his talent with our Creative Learning CenterCLC family for so many years. As CLC parents we were so blessed for over 16 years to have Dan teach our children basic manners, fun games like Squashed Sardines and Going On a Bear Hunt, but most importantly about choosing to follow your heart, then just let everything else follow you.

 Posted by The VanHoven Family from CLC - Grand Rapids, MI November 14, 2002

With deepest sympathy

 Posted by Marti childs - Grand Rapids, MI November 14, 2002

Dear Mr and Mrs Gillisse, Dan Dan the Music Man brought great fun and joy to my sons Justin and Jarrett. They loved to sing with him and learn new games. They enjoyed his unique musical instruments. He helped my youngest son adjust between going to preschool and kindergarten. He was active in my sons'BAC program. They always had great things to say about what he taught. We will miss him. I am sure he knows how much he touched these kids. One of my favorite pictures of the end of preschool last year was Dan sitting with Jarrett painting pictures and we were all sitting in little chairs and Dan as always had a huge smile. He had great joy that he shared readily. You are in our thoughts and prayers The Ullreys- Becky Jeff Justin and Jarrett

 Posted by Becky Ullrey - Rockford, MI November 14, 2002

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

 Posted by Mary Travis - Wyoming, MI November 14, 2002

We have lost one of the best of us. May we all try to be kind and loving as he was. Let this be Dan's legacy that we will try to fulfill every day of our lives.

 Posted by Bluma and Don Herman - Grand Rapids, MI November 14, 2002

I am so sorry for your loss. He was such a talented man. Marlene Downes-Whistle Stop

 Posted by Marlene Downes - Grand Rapids, MI November 15, 2002

I've so many fond memories of Daniel. He was always quick with a smile and a laugh. I remember swimming at Barlow Lake and sitting around playing Hearts. I remember helping him bake cookies for a Jenison Community Theatre production. He thought I put too much shortening on the cookie sheets when I greased them. I remember how radiant he looked on his wedding day, with Kathleen at his side, both ready to begin that next step in their lives.
 One of my fondest memories of Dan happened at Robin and Rod's house in Lansing, right after Robin and Rod's wedding. I was seven months pregnant with Eli so I was relaxing on the gliding bench on the deck. Dan sat next to me and we talked for some time about everything and nothing. Finally he asked if he could touch my stomach if the baby kicked. Eli soon obliged and Dan's eyes lit up when he felt it. He was fascinated with kids, a perpetual little boy himself.
 I remember how good he was with Matthew, allowing Matthew to lead him around by the hand instead of the other way around.
 I remember the joy on Dan's face when Matthew, Christopher, Eli, and Ian would open presents on Christmas morning. Dan would be one of the first to get on the floor and play with all four boys. Eli and Ian still cherish pairs of animal head slippers that Dan gave them 5 or 6 years ago.
 The last time Rafe and I were able to visit with Dan, he invited us out to his house in Belding for dinner. I don't even remember what he cooked for us but I do remember that the food was only a mild spice to the pleasant and comforting conversation. Dan had many plans for his house and was excited about the changes to be made.
 Dan was always there to help; help tote things out of a house to clean it, help paint a room, help by keeping the kids occupied with games and songs.
 I remember his amusement and frustration when he had to learn to roller skate in the tiny stage area of Circle Theatre for "The Rink". In one sentence he would curse the size of their rink and in the next he would laugh and say how much fun it was.
 I remember standing around Rose's kitchen, sipping tea, while Daniel and Jack ate their dinners before a performance, Dan and Jack tossing jokes back and forth at each other.
 Daniel wasn't my blood brother but he was my brother by choice, just as the rest of the Gillisse family is my dear family by choice. We all adopted each other years ago and nothing will break that tie. 
 Rafe, Eli, Ian, and I will all be with you in spirit on Saturday morning as we say goodbye to our beloved Daniel. Rose, Jack, Robin, Chris, the whole Gillisse family, you remain in my heart and prayers. Tell Dan I love him, tell him I miss him.

 Posted by Sally Aalderink - Plano, TX November 15, 2002

We are saddened to hear of your loss. Dan was a great asset to the community. Our children, Scott and Shannon, both new and loved Dan through their contact with him at the Creative Learning Center. He was a joy to be around. Because of him, my daughter wants to get involved in the theater. He has been a great mentor to all of the children whose lives he has touched. We will miss him greatly. Su, Steve, Shannon and Scott Fryover

 Posted by The Fryover Family - Lake Odessa, MI November 15, 2002

We are so sorry for your loss. Dan was the music teacher for our daughter's preschool in Rockford so we only knew him for a short time but we all thought he was wonderful. Reilly couldn't wait for "Dan, The Music Man" to come to her school. His being there was as much, or more, fun than the preschool itself. She comes home with songs she has learned from Dan that amaze and amuse us. He will not be forgotten in our home. Thank you for raising such a wonderful son. 
 Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
 Tim, Sandy and Reilly Winn

 Posted by Tim, Sandy and Reilly Winn - Rockford, MI November 15, 2002

Dan and his love of music will live on with our son. He will be truly missed.

 Posted by Jim, Mary and Tyler Penrod - Belmont, MI November 15, 2002

Please give my very best regards to Dan Gillesse's parents, especially Jack Gillesse whom I've had the honor of sharing a stage with.
 I am so sorry for their loss and cannot imagine our theatre community without the vast talent and beautiful spirit Dan shared with us all. He will be sorely missed.
 Please take care and know that my thoughts and prayers are with Dan's family.
 Sincerely Cinda

 Posted by Cinda DeBolt - Grand Rapids, MI November 15, 2002

Jack & Rose, I want to extend my deepest sympathies to you both. Through being classmates and sharing the stage a time or two, Dan and I had some great moments together. In fact, he just encouraged me at our reunion a couple of weeks ago to get involved again and join him for some more tryouts. I'm saddened that that won't be a possibility. I will always aprreciate his openess, his laughter, the joy that seemed to radiate from his pours. He was like a "joy" infection whenever we talked together! You both are in our families prayers. In Christ, Bob Karel

 Posted by Bob Karel - Grand Haven, MI November 15, 2002

Having worked with Dan this past summer at "camp", I've learned to appreciate his quick wit, kid focus, zest for life, and trusting soul. He will be much missed by many children and "kids at heart" here in Rockford. Thank you for sharing him with us!

 Posted by Brenda Alters - Rockford, MI November 15, 2002

I am very sad to hear about Dan. He was an extremely talented and wonderfully friendly person. I had a few opportunities to work with him at Circle Theatre in shows and always enjoyed his company. My deepest sympathies and blessings go out to you.

 Posted by Linda Missad - Grand Rapids, MI November 15, 2002

My sincere sympathies to Dan's family and friends. I worked with Dan at Creative Learning Center and had the pleasure of seeing him share his tremendous gifts of love of young children and his ability to make each child feel special. I have many warm memories. May your memories of Dan bring you peace. Sincerely, June Anderson

 Posted by June Anderson - Grand Rapids November 15, 2002

I was honored to work with Dan for a couple of years at the Creative Learning Center. He was a wonderful teacher who truly touched the lives of the children he came in contact with. He was a great person who you could depend on. A very caring person! To his family -I am sorry for your loss. He will live on in the many, many lives he has touched! A person who truly made a difference.
 Sincerly, Kristi NowickiMiller

 Posted by Kristi Nowicki - Byron Center, MI November 15, 2002

Our sincere sympathy to you and the family on such at sorrowful time. I still remember Dan as a small choir member in the childrens choir at church. He will be missed by so many that loved him. Prayers to you and the family. Joyce & Bunk

 Posted by Wendell & Joyce Grummet - Byron Center, MI November 15, 2002

"Mr.Dan" was a great teacher and my friend. He taught me how to play cribbage, and did lots of other things with us. I will miss him very much.Kyle. As Kyle's parents, we observed that Dan was a very gifted individual who had a special place in all of the childeren's hearts! We thank him for all of the wonderful memories! Tom & Jan Sheafor

 Posted by Kyle Sheafor 2nd grader at Belmont BAC program - Belmont, MI November 15, 2002

Dan was my dear friend and deep joy. His laugh, and the smile and grin infectuous. He also was one of the most kind individuals and always quick to point out the positive even in a sea of negative thinking. His abilities on stage were incredible, his voice and comic timing a gift to watch and participate with. His talent with children phenomenal. I have so many memories, flashes these last few days of just how blessed I was to know him, to have laughed with him, to have had him tell me he loved me and was so excited to be my friend...he made me feel that special...
 I have numerous years of memories with Dan...but I cannot say enough how in these past few days the thing that is sure to bring me to tears is the memory of his laugh...it just really captured my heart over and over again...I know that soon I will laugh again hearing Dan's laugh can surely bring no lingering pain and he would be so iritated with me if I let that happen...but now...I just know how much I miss him! 
 Eighteen years ago,Dan held my newborn daughter in his arms, singing and cooing and she laid there rapt just looking and listening and cooing back...it continued like that for years...Dan would come around and my daughter would enter into the world of make-belive and story-land...he would take the first, best picture I have of her and he would play any board game she wanted...he completely respected young children and engaged in their world and I loved him for that.
 To Jack and Rose and the rest of the family and friends so touched by the loss of Dan's physical presence...His was a spirit of amazing joy and I have no doubt he is out there with arms open wide to the mysteries. Mahalo and Aloha from Hawaii, and yes, I will be going to the volcano this week-end and throwing a lei in it on Dan's behalf - Laura Caswell-Ward

 Posted by Laura Ward - Hilo, HI November 15, 2002

We are so sorry for your loss. Our twins, Jacob and Rachel, were lucky enough to have Dan as their preschool music teacher the past two years. He made quite an impression on our children, we would often hear them singing around the house, in the car, etc. and we would ask them where they had learned that song and they would smile and say from "Dan the Music Man". Our entire family has so much fun singing the songs Jacob and Rachel have learned from Mr. Dan. He has been a wonderful teacher and friend to our children, we feel so fortunate to have known him. He will be greatly missed. 
 Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
 Howard, Ronda, Jacob & Rachel Hellings

 Posted by Howard, Ronda, Jacob & Rachel Hellings - Belmont, MI November 15, 2002

I am grateful to have seen Dan at our class reunion October 19. He was just as he always had been, warm, loving, friendly and someone I had missed more than I realized. His death shook me. My condolences to his family. Rose, I sent a message with Dan the night of the reunion. I would like to again thank you for all that you did for me on the St. Louis trip back in 1981. I have always felt fortunate that you were there to take me home during my illness. Anyway, my fondest memories of high school are during the school play "My Fair Lady". It was then that Dan, Margaret, and others taught me what real teamwork was all about. True friends too. 
 I will miss Dan. He was a wonderful guy.
 Love, Tracy Semeyn Mitchell

 Posted by Tracy Semeyn Mitchell - Reed City, MI November 16, 2002

Dear Rose & Jack, Sheryl and I were shocked and saddened to hear of Dan's passing. He was such an extraordinary human being and I personally regret never having had the opportunity to be involved in a play with him. I have to believe that his talent and enthusiasm were inherited and then refined. We deeply regret being unable to personally offer our sympathies but please know that our prayers are with you. Sincerely, Sheryl & Art

 Posted by Art & Sheryl Tusch - Grandville, MI November 16, 2002

I had the fortunate opportunity to work with Dan in Circle's production of Honk! He was a very kind and funny guy, and I am very sad to see him pass. The theatre community will miss him greatly as great friend. Sincerely, Margaret Dietrich, 13

 Posted by Margaret - Kentwood November 16, 2002

I was fortunate enough to work with Dan in Circle's summer production of Honk!I found him to be a kind and funny guy, with immense talent. I was very upset to hear of his passing. The theatre community has lost a great friend.

 Posted by Margaret Dietrich - Kentwood, MI November 16, 2002

Our sympathies go out to Dan's family and friends. We have always admired Dan's talent and have many fond memories of the early theatre days together. God Bless.

 Posted by Suzy & Dave Duiven - Grand Rapids, MI November 16, 2002

Dear Gillesse Family:
 I am saddened to hear the news of Dan's passing. He was a great friend to me and my family. Dan brought so much joy and laughter into our lives. He always had a smile on his face, playfulness in his soul, and an endless heart of gold. He touched our lives in many ways, and he will never be forgotten.
 He was more than just a fellow theatre student and actor in highschool drama classes and community theatre productions; he was like a brother, always quick to offer his emotional support and genuine care.
 I regret that it has been nearly 20 years since I last saw or spoke to Dan, but I am pleased to hear that he had shared his talents and gifts, his life, teaching children. For this and more, he will always be greatly blessed.
 Sorry, I'm really not very good at expressing my thoughts or feelings during times like this, but please know, that I am there with him and you in heart and spirit today.
 Warmest Regards,
 -Kaye L. Fryling

 Posted by Kaye L. Fryling - San Francisco, CA November 16, 2002

I think Dan was my first real life celebrity. Ten years ago Circle Theatre equated Broadway to me. When I first saw Dan in Evita, his was the most beautiful voice I had ever heard coming from a real live person. I thought of myself as the "President of the Dan Gillise Fan Club." My admiration broadened for him after I began to know who he was and of his work. I worked with children myself and thought it was soooo cool that I had the same job as Dan Gillise. When the Plaid Boys were at Centre Stage, ushering for that show became a more than weekly ritual. I used to love to see Dan come out of his shell on the "If your sweethart sends a letter" song. Yet the highlight for the president of her own Dan Gillise fan club came in the shape of Floyd Collins. The moment I heard that recording, there was no doubt in my mind Dan was made to play that role. Come on, did anyone else think otherwise? The pastor spoke of heroes, and Dan was one of my first real heroes. And it wasn't because of just because of the work he did on stage, it was because of who he was off also. From Dan I learned that it dosen't matter how talented you are, if the beauty of your soul equals the beauty of your voice, that is what people will really hear. That is what I heard all along.

 Posted by Sarah LaCroix - Grand Rapids, MI November 16, 2002

We were Plaids; four voices, pulled from the fabric of the Grand Rapids community, who were granted the priviledge of 90 joyful minutes per performance, playing on stage to pretty wonderful crowds and desperately trying to tighten our harmonies with each go. 
 After two plus years in the same roles, you get to know a guy. Where he breathes. When he's feeling up or down. When he's getting to the part of a song that he really loves to sing. You stop tuning the notes with your ears and you just feel when the chord is right. The voices connect on a spiritual level of joy that resonates in the heart and never leaves you. 
 In our quartet, Guy was the anchor, Michael was the guide, I provided the glue to hold the pieces together, and Dan made it beautiful. I always listened for him as we sang. He was amazing; soaring over us with a natural grace and skill that I could never hope to achieve. I was in awe of Dan not just becuase of his talent, but because of the way his heart, his soul and his love was reflected in that talent. Dan was the embodiment of what the Plaids sought: that one perfect chord, that one perfect moment. He was truly all that any of us could ever ask for or try to be. He was, given only 39 years, a brief demonstration of what can be right in the world when we start listening to each other with our heart. He was a lesson whose resonance I intend to maintain in my heart. He was a chord that I will continue to strive to achieve. 
 I was blessed to know Dan. So long, Jinx, I love you.

 Posted by Scott R. Mellema - Caledonia, MI November 16, 2002

Dear Jack, Rose & Family,
 Dan will always hold a special place in my memories of high school. We were in Chorale & Chamber Singers together, and had such fun on our trip to St. Louis. And can I even think of failing to mention the high school musicals?? I can't think of those experiences and not think of Dan. He was such help and support in so many ways. I would run into Dan infrequently after high school, but would always keep tabs on his many theatrical successes from many dear friends we both shared. Every one I ever talked to who knew Dan had nothing but praise for his many talents and zest for life. I was unable to attend Dan's funeral, but my thoughts and prayers were/are with you during the past 4 days. I am grateful that 3 different people took the time to call me and let me know of Dan's passing. It is a testament to how many people's lives Dan touched!
 With Deepest Sympathy, Brian Nederveld

 Posted by Brian Nederveld - Plainwell, MI November 17, 2002

I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to Dan's parents and family. My son had Dan for a teacher at Creative Learning Center 7 years ago and we loved him so much for his compassion, sensitivity and thoughtfulness. Dan had an extraordinary ability to communicate his genuine love of children. He spoke to his students with such respect and tenderness and modeled for them an example of caring that will stay forever in our memories.I was so impressed with Dan and admired his love of learning, adventure and life. Years after my son had Dan for a teacher we continued to speak of our memories of those years and the lessons he taught us about life.

 Posted by Valerie Wegner - Grand Rapids, MI November 17, 2002

Our family was just shocked and so saddened to hear of Dan's death. He was a truly wonderful human being, and he will be missed. 
 My children, Jonathan age 11 and Callie age 6 had Dan for a teacher at CLC. Jonathan adored Dan: he had Dan as a teacher for After School, Summer Camps, & Winter Camps for about 5 years. Through Dan, Jonathan had a great role model of a man who was warm and caring and fun. Jonathan also enjoyed all the creative things Dan did in the classroom -- like Charades and music time. And the CLC sleepovers at Dan's place are something that Jonathan will always remember. Callie, while she didn't know Dan as well, enjoyed the weekly music time she had with him. And before she ever had Dan for a teacher, she already loved him because of the times she spent in the room visiting Jonathan.
 We all went to see him in "Honk!" It was so fun for Jonathan & Callie to see Dan in his role. And it was delightful to talk with him after the show. He immediately said "Jonathan! Callie! How are you?!?" -- even though none of us had seen him since he left CLC. 
 Dan was a sweet and caring person. I wish you comfort during this very sad time. Suzann Ogland-Hand

 Posted by Suzann Ogland-Hand - East Grand Rapids, MI November 18, 2002

To all that have signed Dan's guestbook:
 I am Dan's brother-in-law; I've been married to his oldest sister, Robin, for 11 years. Dan also stood as Godfather for our son, Chris, who is 9 years old. While I don't speak for his family, I do want to thank all of you who attended his service Saturday and have shared your memories here. I have three brothers of my own, and I love Dan no less than any of them. To Kim and Greg, thank you for pouring out so much at his service. Even though his body has left us, he will always be "Forever Plaid" And, dear friends, please don't forget..."The World Goes 'Round."

 Posted by Rod Zamarron - Columbus, OH November 18, 2002

Our children have attended Creative Learning Center since 1995. Our daughter Ali is 7 and son Cameron is 4. 
 I remember when Ali was in the "Wobbler" room and soon to be going to the Pre-school room and we were keeping our fingers crossed that she get placed in Dan's room. 
 He had such a wonderful reputation at CLC and everyone wanted their child to get placed in his class. Well as luck had it, she did get Dan. We were so excited and she enjoyed being in his room. After a short while though, Dan decided to head up the new Art/Music program at the center so Ali was put in another room. While I was disappointed, we were still thrilled that she would still interact with him during his music classes.
 Dan also taught music for Cameron as a toddler. He LOVED going to music. What he did in music class was the first thing he talked about when we'd pick him up. 
 My sister also took her son to CLC for a short while when she took a long term substitue teacher position. The lasting memory that Peyton had of his time at CLC was also Dan's music class. He had told my sister that he loved Dan The Music Man and that "he is a happy man". 
 That pretty much sums up what we'll always remember about your son. He had a genuine love for children and he showed it everyday. He brightened the days of many many children and made the time away from their parents joyful. You must be very proud. 
 May God Bless your family during this difficult time.
 Sue and Steve Leitz

 Posted by Sue and Steve Leitz - Ada, MI November 18, 2002

Dan and I went to school together from kindergarten to college. We didnt like each other too much in elementary school and I remember vividly in 1st grade his parents came over and left him sitting alone with me on the couch - he was horrified -lol. We became friends in 9th grade after an encouter with his very large tennis shoe in gym left a mark on me for a week. A mutual friend had a talk with him and after that he started being nice to me and from that day on he chose to no longer follow the crowd and became my friend. We realized and shared a love of music and laughter together. He was my dance partner in the school musical and taught me the Tango. In college he got trays from the cafeteria and took me sledding down the side of the stadium. He knew how to have fun anytime, anywhere. We lost contact over the years as I was busy with my own music career teaching and performing. Just last year I was playing piano at the University Club he came in with the caroling group. I knew who he was right away and I got to accompany him once again. Hearing at the funeral how had such a great influence on children, and teaching them good values and how to treat one another, I can't help but know I was there when he first decided to make the world a kinder and better place. I cant think of anyone better than Dan to teach children about music, kindness, and friendship. It shows that one does not have to have children to leave a legacy. Mr and Mrs. Gillisse and family, my heart breaks for you, and you have defintiely been in my thoughts and prayers. The service was extraordinary and obviously so many people were extremely proud of Dan. God Bless, Deborah
 "Say Goodnight, Not Goodbye You will never leave my heart behind, Like the path, of a star, I'll be anywhere you are, In the spark that lies beneath the coals, In that secret place inside your soul, Keep my light, in your eyes, Say Goodnight not Goodbye."
 "Say Goodnight" by Beth Nielson Chapman

 Posted by Deborah Kaslander Knauf - Lowell, MI November 18, 2002

Dear Gillissee family,
 Please accept my deepest sympathies. Dan and I knew one another from Jenison High School. We met again only recently at our 21st reunion just last month. Dan was such a warm and wonderful person, and I remember thinking to myself the night of the reunion how much he had remained true to himself and his dreams. I will always have fond memories of your son, brother, and grandson. I hope you can find some comfort in knowing how many people's lives Dan touched.

 Posted by Jane Junn - East Brunswick, NJ November 19, 2002

Mr. and Mrs. Gillisse and Family:
 I was so shocked to hear about Dan. We've had several losses this year, but, somehow, this one seems hardest to bear. 
 Our son, Adam, first met "Mr. Dan" last year in Rockford's after-care program. Dan came to the classroom to teach the children crafts and games. I have never seen Adam so excited about learning crafts! I especially remember Dan showing him how to finger-weave. 
 Dan had a special quality that drew children to him like a magnet. I didn't know him for very long, but it was apparent right from the beginning what a truly wonderful person he was. He was so giving and generous with his time, his talents, his ideas. 
 We also saw Dan at the Rockford summer program this past summer. Adam didn't have Dan as a teacher, but was in the same building. The children's service project for the summer was to raise funds for school supplies, etc. for the North Kent Service Center, and it was Dan's idea to have a special showing of "Honk!" to raise funds for that project. We were lucky to have seen Dan in that production; we were honored to see how very talented he was. I was hoping that Adam would have Dan for his teacher at next year's summer program.
 Mr. and Mrs. Gillesse, you must be so proud of your son! He was beloved by all, and everyone who came into contact with him came away a better person.
 My husband, Howie, and son, Adam, join me in expressing our deepest sympathies on your loss. We will miss him.
 Dawn McClaine Fischer

 Posted by Dawn McClaine Fischer - Rockford, MI November 20, 2002

Dear Mr. Dan:
 I liked when you came to teach us projects and games at my school. It was fun. I really liked the finger weaving, and I still have the blue scarf you helped me make.
 I will miss you, Mr. Dan!
 Love,
 Your friend, 
 Adam Fischer, age 8

 Posted by Adam Fischer - Rockford, MI November 20, 2002

Dear Jack and Rose, Rob and I were so shocked to hear about Dans passing. We are so sorry. We also rejoice with you the increadable human being your son was, he will be so missed. I don't know if you remember us but our most fond memories are with "Forever Plaid", I played the "boys" stage manager and Rob was our "sound Guy", we stuck it through many performances even beyond Circle with Dan and the others. Plaid carries my closest theater memeories and with them are Dan. Our prayers are with you, and thank you for being the parents that you have been to your children. Rob and DaNae

 Posted by Rob and DaNae Reynolds - Grand Rapids, MI November 20, 2002

What a shock to hear of Dan's death!! Our two sons, Ben & Adam, who are now 16 and 13, were lucky enough to be cared for and mentored by Dan at CLC years ago. One fond memory is when he brought a group of kids over to a recording studio, and they made a recording of "The Lion Sleeps Tonight." My son was singing it for days afterwards, along with all of the animal sounds!! We have followed his acting/singing career over the years...what a talented person he was!! We especially enjoyed the "Dicken's Quartet" which he sang in every Christmas at Blythefield. We will miss Dan's high energy and positive approach to life. Our sincere sympathies are with you, as you grieve the loss of a beloved grandson, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He will always be remembered!!

 Posted by Judy Levick - Ada, MI November 21, 2002

Dear Jack, 
 Hello. I am sure you have recieved many phone calls and emails regarding Dan and how wonderfully he has touched so many lives. I was one of the privileged to be able to work with him in doing what he loved. I was very young at the time that we did "Wiley" together but I remember how he influenced my love for the theater. I am grateful to have known him and will always give him credit for helping me find my true passion in theater. My prayers and thoughts are with your family. 
 With deepest regards, 
 Michael T. DeBolt

 Posted by Michael T. DeBolt - 29 Palms, CA November 24, 2002

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Daniel Jack Gillisse

4 juin 1963 – 11 novembre 2002

Cook Funeral Home & Cremation Services – Grandville Chapel

Montrez votre soutien

Envoyez Vos
Condoléances

Partager
L'avis De Décès

Obtenir les mises à jour

Prestations de Service