Dan was born in Orange City, Iowa, and is the son of Eugene and Leola (VanWyk) TeGrotenhuis. He graduated from Maurice-Orange City High School, Northwestern College, Orange City, Iowa, and Indiana State University.
Dan lived his life by intentionally investing in the lives of others and by being a servant leader. He began his career as a physical education teacher in Indianapolis Public Schools, encouraging exceptional students to play and compete. That experience led to his position as Indiana Special Olympics program director, inspiring all ages to excel and to support teammates. Dan continued his passion to serve fellow educators, parents and the youth of Putnam County during his principal positions at Reelsville Elementary School and Tzouanakis Intermediate School. He continued his involvement with others by mentoring through TZ Garden Club, the TALKS program at Greencastle High School, as a home and school liaison at Ridpath Elementary School, and a CASA with Putnam County Youth Development.
Dan was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ and was a member of the Greencastle Christian Church. His favorite role there was being a greeter each Sunday and distributing Dutch peppermints to children. He was involved with that community of friends as an elder, a Sunday school teacher and a worshipper.
Dan was his family’s most loyal and loving supporter. He was devoted to his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Allyson TeGrotenhuis, his son, Josh TeGrotenhuis, Fishers, IN, his daughter Abby, and son-in-law, Matt Chatelain, of Novi, Michigan, and their three children, grandson, Asher, and granddaughters, Rory and Palmer, who fondly refer to him as “G”. In addition, he is survived by his mother Leola TeGrotenhuis, his brother Gary (Linda), Doug (Peg), and a sister, Jane (Dave)VanGorp, all from Iowa.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, July 17, 2018 at the Greencastle Christian Church 620 Primrose Lane Greencastle, IN. Interment will follow at the Forest Hill Cemetery, Greencastle.
The family will receive friends from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Monday, July 16th at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Dan to the TALKS Program c/o Gobin United Methodist Church 307 Simpson St. Greencastle, CASA c/o Putnam County Youth Fellowship Commission 10 ½ N. Jackson, Greencastle, or the Care Net Pregnancy Center 1224 S. Bloomington, Greencastle, IN 46135.
Condolences and Memories may be shared with the family c/o www.BittlesandHurt.com
