Daniel Joseph Dunigan

Daniel J. Dunigan, a man of quiet strength and endless kindness, passed away peacefully at home in Grapevine, Texas, surrounded by loved ones on June 17, 2025. Throughout his journey with cancer, he showed remarkable courage and resilience, never allowing the illness to define him. He met each challenge with the grace and determination that had always shaped his life, reminding everyone around him of the power of perseverance and love.

Born on May 15, 1954, in Dallas, Texas, Dan graduated from Hillcrest High School in 1972 and went on to earn his degree from the University of North Texas in 1978, where he proudly served as President of Delta Sigma Phi fraternity. He dedicated his professional life to serving others—whether in sales or the restaurant world—bringing warmth, integrity, and an ability to connect deeply with people. His work was never just a job; it was a way to uplift others, and his generosity touched more lives than he ever realized.

Dan leaves behind a family who will forever feel the comfort and strength of his love. He had a rare blend of patience, empathy, and thoughtfulness—and an uncanny knack for solving any problem, from broken appliances to complicated moments. His beloved wife, Vicki, was his heart and partner of 47 wonderful years. Together they built a life grounded in mutual respect, laughter, and unwavering devotion. As a father to Shelli Cassel and Sean Dunigan, he offered wisdom, humor, and encouragement, teaching them to live with kindness and resilience.

Dan was affectionately known as “GranDan” by his four cherished grandchildren—Kian, Elleri, Drew, and Dylan—who brought him immeasurable joy. He patiently answered their questions, cherished their laughter, and made sure they always felt safe and loved in his presence. He shared a deep bond with his son-in-law, Brett Cassel, and daughter-in-law, Kristen Dunigan, whom he embraced wholeheartedly as family. Whether offering advice, lending a hand, or simply sharing a meal, he welcomed them with humor and a full heart.

He is also survived by his sister, Bettylou Yarbrough, and her husband, Chip, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and enduring memories. Dan also held special bonds with his cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family. He treasured the time spent at family gatherings, swapping stories, and celebrating life’s simple joys—his love for them was as steady as it was boundless. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Lou and Bettygene Dunigan.

Dan can be credited with bringing Vicki together with her birth family. Vicki was hesitant at first but Dan did the research and pronounced “it’s the real thing”. This brought unspeakable joy into the lives of this family.

Dan embraced life with enthusiasm. Whether teeing off on a sunny morning, casting a line into a quiet lake, or hosting legendary backyard barbecues as a true grill master, he found joy in the everyday. He was a devoted foodie, always in search of new flavors to savor, and a world traveler who reveled in discovering unfamiliar places and cultures. Yet, some of his happiest moments came from life’s simpler pleasures—a great movie, a home-cooked meal, and laughter around the table.

A visitation will be held on Monday, June 23rd, from 4 to 6 p.m. at J.E. Foust Funeral Home, 523 S Main St, Grapevine, TX, offering family and friends a time to gather, reflect, and share in quiet remembrance. A service to celebrate Dan’s legacy of love, leadership, and loyalty will follow on Tuesday, June 24th, at 11 a.m. at the same location. Loved ones will come together to share stories of his steady compassion, thoughtful presence, and the countless ways he made the world better just by being in it. Though he is no longer physically here, Dan’s spirit endures—in the lessons he passed down, the kindness he lived by, and the deep love he leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in his honor to the Texas Oncology Foundation or the PAN Foundation, causes close to Dan’s heart. The links for donations can be found below.