Daniel Foster

Daniel E. Foster was big hearted and easy going, free spirited and fun. He exuded an energy that ignited those around him, and people naturally gravitated to him. He deeply loved his wife and soul mate, and he graciously gave of himself to family and friends.

Daniel was born December 20, 1935 in Sparta, Michigan to Alfred and Lelah (Dilley) Foster. Being one of the youngest in the large family, he was spoiled by his older sisters. But already at an early age, he learned what it meant to work hard. Growing up during the Great Depression, most families struggled to make ends meet, so Dan not only helped with chores around the house, he also worked at neighboring farms. Like others of his generation, he left school before graduating in order to earn more money to support his family.

Dan was about 17 years old when he enlisted in the U.S. Marines. While aboard a ship headed to Korea, an armistice was signed, but Dan fulfilled his military duty and was proud of his service. He was realistic about wartime challenges, but he often said “I love this country.”

Upon discharge, Dan returned to Michigan and went to work for McInerney Spring and Wire in Grand Rapids. Over the years, he worked his way up to supervisor and remained a valued employee for over 30 years. Late in his career, Dan worked for Amway for several years before he retired.

As focused as he was on his work at McInerney, Dan was delighted to meet a young woman who turned his attention to marriage and family. With his marriage to Ruth (Sims) Fowler, Dan became an instant father to four children, and together he and Ruth had two more children. His youngest daughter, Debbie, was Daddy’s girl. She went everywhere with Dan, and Debbie’s blanket went everywhere with her. Early on, Dan learned to make sure that blanket was always in tow.

After several years, the marriage ended in divorce, but Dan found the love of his life, Leona Byrnes, in the factory where he worked. In fact, he was Leona’s supervisor and as his interest in her increased, he managed to pick easy jobs for her to do. They fell deeply in love, got married, and (it’s no exaggeration to say) they “lived happily ever after.”

Dan and Leona were perfect together and absolutely inseparable. Each time Dan got up from the table, he would give Leona a kiss and then another when he returned. They affectionately called one another “Sweetheart” and “Darling,” but they weren’t selfish with their love. Their hearts spilled over to family and friends.

Dan got to know Leona’s adult children, and many, many people were constantly coming and going from their home. They entertained frequently, preparing plenty of food (including Dan’s homemade bread) and making sure everyone had everything they needed. On the flipside, Dan enjoyed visiting with friends and family, but he was never one to stay long. He would come, do what he came to do and leave. That’s just the way he was.

Dan and Leona’s first home was on Big Pine Island Lake, and then they moved to Lincoln Lake. Especially during the summer, Dan took full advantage of the lake. He took leisurely rides on his pontoon, often with a Pabst Blue Ribbon in his hand. He also liked to grill kielbasa. Dan was the picture of relaxation: the guy who always walked around in swim trunks and no shirt.

Dan was generous with his time and resources. He was easy to get along with and genuinely cared about people. He would give anyone the shirt off his back…when he was wearing one.

Dan liked to sing—sing like The King. His taste in music centered around Elvis Presley, and he had many of Elvis’s 8-Tracks. Even when those became “dinosaurs,” Dan never threw out an Elvis recording.

Dan was also a sports person. Particularly in his younger days, he played recreation league softball, and later in life, he enjoyed shooting pool. Even when his movements became more limited, he still drove his golf cart around to greet friends and neighbors. Throughout his life, Dan was an avid bowler, joining several leagues that enabled him to travel around the state to compete for the many trophies he won. And yes, he did bowl a 300 game!

In the mid 1990s, Dan was hit hard with the loss of his beloved Leona. Their love was so evident and true that it pained others to see that Dan was never quite the same after her death. In recent years, he struggled with a heart condition. He was admitted to hospital in September 2009, and after suffering complications, he passed away a week later on Thursday, September 24th. Gratefully, Dan was able to spend time with several members of his family.

Dan was fun-loving and social but never loud, obnoxious or boisterous. He was strong willed at times, but his temper seldom surfaced. With true sincerity, he treated others with respect, and people were readily drawn to him. He will be greatly missed by those who knew him best.

Mr. Daniel E. Foster, age 73 of Gowen, MI was preceded in death by his wife, Leona; and by a daughter, Diane Barrett. Dan is survived by his children, Gregg Foster, Debbie Foster, Marilyn (Robert) Lake, Gary (Linda Stever) Bauman, Jim Fowler, Gail Fowler, Mike Fowler; by several grandchildren; his sisters, Joan (Jack) Longfield and Mary Vernon, and special friends. A memorial service will be held on Monday, September 28 at 11 AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – Van Strien Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield NE where friends may visit with his family from 10 AM until the time of the service. To a memory or sign the online register, please visit www.lifestorynet.com