Daniel C. Dahlquist

Daniel “Dan” C. Dahlquist, age 83, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.

Dan was born on September 9, 1942, in Manistee, Michigan, to Carl and Gale Dahlquist. He grew up in a close-knit community, attending Woodrow Wilson Elementary School until it closed, then continuing at Lincoln Elementary through seventh grade. In 1956, he entered eighth grade at Manistee High School, where he spent five memorable years as an active student and athlete, proudly graduating with the Class of 1960. Dan participated in football, basketball, and tennis, and often fondly recalled his early years, saying, “We actually had Opie Taylor’s childhood—it was great.”

In September of 1960, shortly after graduation, Dan and four of his classmates traveled to Detroit to be sworn into the United States Navy. He went on to complete training at the U.S. Naval Training Center north of Chicago, beginning a lifetime of discipline, service, and dedication that defined much of his character.

After his time in the Navy, Dan worked for the Michigan State Patrol before building a long and successful career, eventually serving as Vice President of Dart Transit Trucking Company.

Dan was united in marriage to Maureen Zielinski and together they built a beautiful life in Forest Lake, Minnesota. They took pride in their home, tending to their lush gardens, caring for the land, and cherishing the wildlife that surrounded them. Dan had a deep love for the outdoors, and in his free time he could often be found golfing or sailing. He and Maureen enjoyed many sailing adventures, including several trips throughout Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and a favorite voyage to the British Virgin Islands.

Dan will be remembered for his warmth, humor, kindness, and love for his family and friends. He approached life with gratitude and joy, often saying, “I will miss you all! Thanks to all the friends along the way that helped make these years a truly remarkable journey.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Gale Dahlquist; Karla Brown.

Dan is survived by his loving wife, Maureen; daughter, Kirstin (Michael) Gorney; son, Darin Dahlquist; grandson, Mitchell Dahlquist; and many other family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply.