Daniel "Dan" Reed Gasper

Daniel Reed Gasper, 76, of Fort Collins, Colorado, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, following a courageous, ten-year battle with cancer. Born on June 5, 1950, in Watertown, South Dakota, Daniel lived a life defined by family, music, service to his community, and an unwaveringly positive spirit.

Daniel was preceded in death by his beloved son, Matthew Gasper, and his parents, Lyle and Oriet Gasper.

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Mary Gasper, whom he married on April 8, 1972; his sons, Mark Gasper, married to Becki, and Greg Gasper, married to Stephanie; and his three beloved grandchildren: Colton and Parker, sons of Mark and Becki, and Madison, daughter of Greg and Stephanie. Parker is married to Chloey. His grandchildren brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his brother Tim Gasper, and his sister-in-law Mary from Rapid City, South Dakota.

Daniel attended the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and Black Hills State University, where he studied business and accounting. He went on to build a distinguished 38-year career in banking with Norwest Bank, which later became Wells Fargo. He ultimately served as bank president in Fort Collins and was deeply involved in the community, serving on numerous local boards and giving his time and talents to causes and organizations he cared about. He also shared his knowledge and experience by teaching banking classes at St. Olaf College.

Music was one of Daniel’s greatest passions. A remarkably talented musician, he taught himself to play the piano and later shared that gift by teaching piano lessons to others. He also played clarinet with the Loveland Concert Band for ten years. Whether sitting at the piano, playing his clarinet, or simply enjoying music with family and friends, music was a meaningful part of Daniel’s life.

Daniel enjoyed golfing, attending Colorado State University sporting events, and, most of all, watching and supporting his grandchildren. He especially loved playing golf with Colton, Parker, and Madison and could often be found cheering them on at their sporting events. An accomplished golfer, Daniel recorded an impressive five holes-in-one. He had a wonderful sense of humor and loved teasing his grandchildren, creating memories they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Daniel and Mary made their home in Rapid City, South Dakota; Marshall and Eden Prairie, Minnesota; and Fort Collins, Colorado. Wherever they lived, Daniel had a gift for making connections, building friendships, and becoming an active and valued part of his community.

Throughout his life, Daniel faced challenges with strength, grace, and optimism. During his ten-year battle with cancer, he continued to approach each day with hope and a positive outlook. One phrase that reflected his philosophy of life was, “This too shall pass.” He lived those words, reminding those around him to keep faith, find the good, and continue moving forward.

Daniel will be remembered for his kindness, intelligence, honesty, humility, humor, musical gifts, generosity, and devotion to his family. He had a genuine ability to make people feel comfortable and valued, and he approached life with quiet confidence and grace. Above all, he will be deeply missed by Mary, his children and grandchildren, and the many friends and members of the communities he touched throughout his life.

A memorial service will be held at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Fort Collins, Colorado, on September 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Cookies and refreshments will be served following the service. A private family inurnment will follow at Resthaven Funeral Home in Loveland, Colorado.

If you are unable to attend the service in person, we invite you to watch it by going directly to live.redeemerconnect.com. You can also access the livestream by selecting the play icon (triangle inside of a circle) in the Services section near the bottom of this page.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Loveland Concert Band, RamStrength, and Redeemer Lutheran Church’s music department.