Daniel F Waechter

Daniel was born on February 23, 1954, in Whitehall, Wisconsin to Jacob and Maurine Waechter. Dan also spent time in Ohio and Indiana, graduating from Argos High School in 1972 in Indiana. Dan bought a brand-new Honda 750 and moved to Texas to enjoy year-round riding (right) and learned to drive a truck.

Now in his mid-20’s, Dan moved to Salt Lake City, met a divorcé with seven kids, they began dating and were later married. He became an instant Dad figure to 4 boys and 3 girls. He made the best food, gave great hugs and lots of advice! Taking on such a huge task was not hard for him. His heart is as big as an ocean. Although he did divorce, he never forgot those kids and he always called them his. He supported those kids in everything they did. That big family had many adventures of camping, fishing, shooting and such yummy food, everyone had his or her favorite.

Then the real fun of adding in-laws and grand kids. He was a great Bunka (Grandpa) to all. He loved and cherished each one. Now his grandkids are having kids, and Dan loved every one of them. Dan loved dressing up as Santa and having all his grandkids sit on his lap. From family parties to working at the mall, Dan was Santa to many. Dan was a friend to many but mostly he just made his family circle bigger and bigger. Dan loved cooking and when someone was in need, Dan was there. He made so much good food to help mend broken hearts, hurting bones, and just to make you feel good. He was a giant of a man in stature and in heart.

Dan worked as an over-the-road trucker, was a dispatcher for C.R. England, Godfrey Trucking and other trucking companies. Dan returned to Nebraska and was a chef at the golf course and drove the van for Chimney Rock Villa.

He was preceded in death by his parents Jake and Maurine; stepfather Ken’ son Kent, and son-in-law Jeff.

Dan is survived by his sisters Sue (Jim) and Margo; brothers Stephen and David. He survived by his children Kerry (Shannon), Lisa (Peiter), Daryl (Marlo), Wendy (Ron), Brent (Lisha), and Cheri (Mark); 28 grandchildren, 41 great grandchildren and numerous friends who were like family.

A Celebration of Life for Daniel F Waechter will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 10:00 am at the Chimney Rock Parking Lot, Bayard, NE. Following the Celebration there will be a potluck meal at the American Legion in Bayard from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm for family and friends.

Fond memories and condolences may be left at www.dugankramer.com for the Waechter family. Dugan Kramer Funeral Chapel assisted the family with arrangements.