Daniel Elliott Barnhardt died on April 21, 2018 at the age of 32 from complications arising from a serious digestive disorder. His loss is a tragedy to those who loved him. His intellect, his unique vision and his ability to think outside traditional pathways would have had value to the scientific community involved in solving world-problems. He had so much to contribute. His untimely death is a collective loss.
Dan’s family and friends admired and treasured his warmth, humor, determination, and bravery. How he faced his life struggles will be an inspiration to us as we move forward and try to adapt to a world without him. He will be missed beyond measure.
Dan grew up in Raleigh, NC, graduating with a Master’s degree in Materials Science Engineering from NC State. He worked at Cree Research before his health was compromised, more recently working in a scientific editing position.
Dan was an outdoorsman, an athlete and a tinkerer of all mechanical things. At various times during his brief life he was a cyclist, triathlete, scuba diver, rock climber and skydiving enthusiast. At the age of 12, he completely dismantled and restored his family’s computer. At 16, he rebuilt the engine to his car. No one in his immediate family could do more than hand him his tools from afar. We believe he inherited his talents from his late uncle, Calvin Barnhardt.
Dan is survived by his parents, John and Lisa Barnhardt; his sister, Julia Coffin and her husband, Jared, and their two daughters, Eleanor and Ada Mae. Dan was particularly charmed by his two nieces and the feeling was completely mutual. The girls adored him.
Dan’s close family included his loyal and loving aunt, Myla Barnhardt; his cousins Amanda and Ross Barnhardt, whom he treasured. He enjoyed a particularly close bond with his cousin Ashley Hurst, who was as devoted to him as he was to her. His uncle, James Hurst, and wife, Teresa, and their other three children, Lauren, Jacob and Megan, all loved and enjoyed his unique spirit.
People of all walks of life were drawn to Dan because of his compassion, humor, and his sincere enjoyment of their company. Friends were always touched by Dan’s appreciation of their individuality and their unique views and experiences.
A memorial service to celebrate Dan’s life will be held on Saturday May 5 at 11:00 AM at Brown Wynne Funeral Home, 300 St. Mary’s St. Raleigh, NC 27609 with a reception following.
In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation in Daniel's honor to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences Astronomy & Astrophysics Research Lab Fund.
