Daniel “Dan” Stussy, who passed away on April 10th, 2024, was born on June 18th, 1947 to Ralph and Virginia Stussy of Pine Island. Dan’s journey through life was vibrant and full of adventure. Dan was known for his antics and character that brought many smiles to everyone.
After graduating from Pine Island High School in 1965, he bravely served his country in Vietnam. But perhaps his greatest adventure began on July 18th, 1969, when he married his beloved Barbara Ann Stucky, and embarked on 54 years of marriage.
Together, they raised a family in Pine Island, MN. Beth (Brad), Jon (Shawna), and Katie (Adam) were not just his children but his pride and joy. He passed his love of horses to Beth, his love of hunting and fishing to Jon, and his green thumb to Katie. He passed his storytelling abilities to all of them.
Yet, if you asked Dan what his greatest joy was, he’d proudly say his four grandchildren: Lindsay, Anna, William, and Matthew. He was happiest when they were around the table, sitting in a deer stand together or playing chess. They made him a bragger; you could never leave his presence without some sort of update on what they were doing.
A man of many talents, Dan’s hands worked wonders with leather, earning him a well-deserved reputation as the master behind “Stussy Leather Shop.” Dan was a cherished member of the Island Riders Saddle Club, where he was known for finding the perfect renegade trail, many catchphrases like “Whoa Dynamite” and certainly his presence at the campfire that many will remember for a lifetime.
Dan was also known for his legendary suspenders as well as his infamous garden which grew bigger each year. You never left his house without a bag of fresh vegetables.
He joins his parents and brothers Jon, Tom and Rollie in eternal rest. On April 28th, an internment will be at 1:30 at the Pine Island Cemetery and a Celebration of Life will follow from 2:00-4:00 pm at the American Legion in Pine Island, as we raise a glass to Dan’s incredible journey. In our hearts he’ll forever ride on. Rest easy, Dan.
Beautifully written!
I’m so very sorry for your loss. Our neighborhood has not been the same without Norm and Dan. Dan always made me smile.
You were a blessed friend. Remember you from carrying grocery out in Pine Island for my mother. A great neighbor. Rest in peace.
I’m so sorry about your loss. I will remember Dan as a very funny and caring man. I’ll never forget all the times we hung at your house with Jon in high school. He will never be forgotten. Rest in peace my friend.
Barb and Family-So sorry for your loss of Dan. May you find peace and comfort in the days and months ahead. RIP DAN
So sorry for your loss. Dan made wonderful memories at our family picnics when he gave all the kids rides on the horse pulled wagon at Collins Park. Great times. Morris and Phyllis Schutz
Dan was a good friend to all. His sense of humor was second to none.
Our sincere sympathy to Barb and their family.
Dan will be missed at our gatherings – there wasn’t one thing he couldn’t talk about.
Rest in Peace Dear Friend
Our condolences to all of your family. We will always remember Dan for the character that he was! His love for his family was always visible. Your memories with him are priceless and he will always be there with you through them. RIP Dan.
Susan and Roger Konrady
Dan and Barb were classmates from 1965. When we were high school Dan worked all the time at Reiters Grocery Store. He was quiet and shy. When he and Barb got married he came into his own. He became the life of the party. Every time any of us got together he was a funny guy and would celebrate any occasion. He had a sense of humor and could also be a thoughtful guy. One thing I always knew was that he and Barb loved each other. They were perfect for each other. Dan will never be forgotten. His sense of humor and his love for Barbie were two of the things that made him one of “the good guys” I will always remember you.
Barb and family so very sorry for the loss of your loving husband , father and grandfather. My heart felt sympathies to everyone, life changes. Hold on to your precious memories. May God bring you comfort and peace at this time. Just losing my Jimmy I understand your grief.
Dear family, So very sorry for your loss. The kids remember carrying for Pedro while Dan served his country. It was our honor and an honor to know Dan. Sincerely Curt and Nicole Harris and their Mom, Eunice
Barb and family, so sorry for your loss. Dan was so much fun on the trail rides–he was the life of the party. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
As a child, Dan was a legendary character to me. “Uncle Danny”, as we called him, always had a quip or a story to tell us. It was bound to be a good day if we saw his trailer parked.
As an adult, I am grateful for his friendship to my mom; the welcoming environment he created in the Island Riders. It’s not the same there without the old guard (Dan, Bud, Bob).
I like to imagine them all riding off into the sunset up there. Happy Trails, Cowboy. Until we see you again. ❤️
*Friend to my Mom AND Dad.