Daniel Edward Barrow Jr.

LEAWOOD - Daniel Edward Barrow Jr. (“Dan”), 81, of Leawood, Kansas, passed away peacefully on January 8. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Dan lived a life defined by curiosity, generosity, integrity, and a pioneering spirit that shaped both his family and the technology industry he helped build.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Ruth Barrow and Daniel Edward Barrow Sr., and by his sister, Marilyn (Barrow) Smith. He is survived by his sister, Carol (Barrow) Beesley, and by a large extended family who loved him deeply and remain profoundly proud of him.

A devoted alumnus of Indiana University, Dan earned his bachelor’s degree before beginning his career at IBM. While he valued the experience, it didn’t take long for him to recognize that his ambitions extended beyond the expected path. With characteristic originality and independence, Dan chose to blaze his own trail—founding DPS, Inc. in 1972 in the basement of a grocery store, starting with just one employee. Over more than 50 years, DPS grew into a highly respected technology company headquartered in Carmel, Indiana. Under Dan’s leadership, it became a trusted partner to clients around the world. Long before “tech entrepreneur” became a common label, Dan was already living it ahead of his time. He was beloved by his employees, who respected not only his intellect and vision, but also his kindness and steadiness. His beloved dog, Otis, was so much a part of the company culture that employees could earn the “Otis Award,” a lighthearted honor that reflected Dan’s belief that work should be meaningful, human, and even fun.

Above all, Dan was a man of his word. If he said he would do something, he did it—without fanfare and without exception. Integrity guided both his personal life and his business, and those who knew him trusted him deeply because of it. Keeping his word mattered to Dan, and he lived that belief every day. Outside of work, Dan’s passions reflected his deep appreciation for history and legacy. He was an avid reader with a particular love for history—especially the Civil War. In retirement, he devoted himself to genealogy, carefully researching and documenting family history. He was also a devoted supporter of Indiana University athletics, holding tickets and faithfully attending games across all sports.

Dan was extremely proud of his family and deeply generous with his love and support. Many of his nieces and nephews credit Dan with inspiring their own entrepreneurial or tech-minded paths. He is survived by his nieces and nephews: Chris Beesley (Jenni) and their children Alex and Anna, Patrick Beesley (Michelle) and their son Max; Erin Kozlowski (Tom) and their daughters Kate and Emily; Elizabeth Paolini (Tom) and their children Edward and Julian; Ryan Smith (Laura) and their children Georgia and William.

Those closest to Dan will remember his dry humor and understated wit. When complimented on a shirt or sweater, he would reply, “The man makes the clothes.” Family still laughs about the vacation when his typically buttoned-up style gave way to loud, unmistakable flip-flops that captured his subtle sense of humor.

A supporter of the Indianapolis Zoo, Dan believed in giving back to organizations that enriched communities and preserved what matters. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dan’s honor to the Indianapolis Zoo or The Salvation Army.

A service celebrating Dan’s life will be held on January 18 at 1:00 p.m. at Day & Deremiah–Frye Funeral Home, 4150 East 3rd Street, Bloomington, Indiana, with brunch to follow.