Daniel Joseph Rittenhouse

He was born on February 14, 1958, in Springfield, Illinois, to Robert L. and Imogene Rittenhouse.

Dan was lovingly known as "Danny" to his family. He graduated from Griffin High School and worked for the City of Springfield as a purchasing agent for many years.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Barbara; daughters, Larissa and her children Kayden and Kyliee, Nikki (Mike) and their children Jude, Max, and Sophie; and son, Eric (Jen) and their son Ethan. He is also survived by his brother, John (Mary Jane); and sisters, Judi (Doug) and Joanie (Phil).

Other family members include sisters-in-law, Vicky and Marguerite; nephews, Michael, Brad, Brian, Tim, Jeff, Jonathan, Colin, and Brett; nieces, Melissa and Megan; great-nieces, Ana Rose, Rosalie, Mary, and Alice; and great-nephews Beau, George, Lincoln, Aaron, Devin, and Andrew.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jerry; and nephew, Scott.

Dan loved watching the St. Louis Cardinals, following all sports, and participating in many throughout his life, but golf was his lifelong passion. He also enjoyed listening to classic rock, attending the Illinois State Fair, watching fireworks, and spending time with family. He never met a stranger, loved a good conversation, and was happiest when surrounded by the people he loved.

His grandchildren were among his greatest joys. He cherished the time he spent with Kayden, whether they were hunting Pokémon, learning about animals together, or making a special stop for ice cream along the way. He loved teaching Kyliee to ride her bike, taking walks with her, and swimming together in the backyard pool.

Dan was affectionately known as “Handy Dan,” though his family knew duct tape was often his favorite repair tool. He rarely left home without a ball cap, never forgot a birthday or holiday, and took great joy in finding the perfect gift or doing something special for the people he loved. Whether it was a ride across town, a late-night medicine run, or simply showing up when someone needed him, Dan could always be counted on.

Those who knew Dan best will remember his gift of gab, his kindness, and his ability to make connections with everyone he met. He had a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and cared for.

His family is especially grateful for the lifelong friendship of Tim Marx, the unwavering kindness of neighbor Todd, and the love and support Mike gave Dan, particularly during his final year.

His family will forever miss his laughter, his generosity, his stubbornness, and the unwavering love he gave so freely. His legacy lives on in every life he touched and in every story that begins with, “Remember when Dan…”

Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

Memorial Gathering and Mass: The family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 pm on Monday August 10, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703. The gathering will begin with a prayer service. Mass will be held at 10:00 am, Tuesday August 11, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1345 N. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62702 with Rev. Manuel P. Cuizon, Ph.D. officiating.

Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Springfield, IL.

Please visit www.butlerspringfield.com to offer condolences.