Daniel Ullery, age 70, of Wayland , died Thursday, May 15, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Dan grew up in Alaska, Mich., and attended Caledonia Community Schools, graduating in 1973 as class valedictorian. A dedicated and hard-working athlete, Dan participated in a variety of sports, often serving as team captain.
He spent his summers at Pages Resort (now Streeters Landing Resort) on Gun Lake, where he enjoyed water sports and was the first in his family to master barefoot skiing. During his teenage years, he worked at Pages General Store, the gas docks, and the state park concession stand.
Dan was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs by Congressman Gerald R. Ford, serving from 1973 to 1975. He received an honorable discharge and earned his teaching certificate from Alma College in 1977, where he also played varsity soccer.
Dan taught and coached at Grayling Community Schools for 39 years. He was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Charles Minor; and his mother-in-law, Mildred Baker.
After retiring in 2007, Dan moved permanently to the Gun Lake area, focusing on fitness, family and recreation. He served actively with the Gun Lake Protective Association, especially enjoying roles related to directory distribution and the annual fireworks. In 2011, Dan joined the DNR at Yankee Springs as a seasonal employee– a role he treasured for the outdoor work and the friendships he formed.
In 2014, Dan married Diane and together they shared passions for fitness, travel, family and friends. Activities enjoyed included hiking, biking, kayaking, and long afternoons boating on the lake. They always welcomed family and friends to accompany them to their favorite destinations, including Shanty Creek, Boyne Mountain, Big Cedar, Gatlinburg and Hilton Head.
One of Dan’s greatest joys was becoming Papa to his granddaughter, Millie. From the moment she was born, Dan was smitten-proudly sharing her milestones and cherishing their deep bond.
Many believed Dan embodied the very spirit of the Boy Scout Motto.
Dan is survived by his wife, Diane; and her children, Jennifer, Matthew, and Christopher Scott; and granddaughters, Addie and Millie. He is also survived by his parents, Wayne and Phyllis Ullery; father-in-law, John Baker; sister, Dianne Minor; brothers, Bruce (Patti) Ullery and Jim (Michele) Ullery; brothers-in-law, Steve (Vicki) Baker and Doug (Sheryl) Baker; and many nieces and nephews.
Beloved by students and athletes alike, as evidenced by their continued contact with him, Dan was touched by how many former students remembered him on his birthday. He was known for his servant leadership, kindness, good-natured teasing, and sharp wit. His style was deeply influenced by his CHS mentors, Larry Timmer and coach John Soderman.
Dan loved Michigan’s north country, spending winters cross-country skiing and hiking. Summers brought him back to Gun Lake, where he enjoyed time with family and friends.
His funeral will be held noon Friday, May 23, at Gun Lake Community Church, 12200 M-179, Wayland with Pastor Dan Beyer officiating. A private burial will be held at Yankee Springs Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family Thursday, May 22, from 6 to 8 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 616 E. Main St. SE, Caledonia, and on Friday from 11 a.m. to noon, prior to the service at Gun Lake Community Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hands of Hope, Yankee Springs Recreational Area, or the Lemon Aide Stand.
