He was born July 27, 1924, in Malden, Whitman County, Washington, to Wesley and Elizabeth (Casey) Cartwright.
He attended school in Malden until senior year, graduating from Pine City High School in May 1942. He began work June 3, 1942 in Seattle for the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad for 38 years and then with the Burlington Northern Railroad until retirement in 1984.
Dan served in the U.S. Army, including time overseas during World War II, from 1943 to 1946, as an Engineer Supply Technician.
Dan met his wife of 71 years, Gloria (Bulgarelli) on a blind date in 1946, at Sick's Stadium to watch the Seattle Rainiers Baseball team.
Dan was an avid sports fan, but the Cougars ranked number one in his book. He would follow the Huskies, Cougars, Seahawks, Sonics and Mariners.
Dan had several second jobs, working at Longacres Race track, Seattle Center, Kingdome, Husky stadium -as an usher or taking tickets. State high school basketball championships were some of his favorites. After retirement, he and wife Gloria had a route and recycled for many businesses in the greater Seattle area and were known as “Ma” & “Pa”
Dan had a warm and fun loving personality. His smiles, winks and the twinkle in his eye made us all feel special. With his friendliness and sharing of jokes he made life long friends.
He is survived by his wife, Gloria, sons George (Janet), Douglas (Lynn), and daughters Carrie (Greg) Bergquist and Gloriann (Sandy), grandchildren Analisa, Alan, Steven and Wesley, and seven great grandchildren, sister-in-law Ruby Cartwright. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Wesley Edward Cartwright.
Services will be held, Tuesday, Oct. 16th at Greenwood Memorial Park 350 Monroe Ave NE Renton, WA 98056. Visitation and light refreshments from 3pm to 6pm, Rosary at 6pm.
Donations may be sent to the: Cascade Rail Foundation P.O. 462 South Cle Elum, WA 98943. Their mission is preserving the memory of the Milwaukee Railroad in the State of Washington.
