PORTAGE — Daniel Charles Runyan, 45, Portage, passed away Friday, Feb. 2, 2018, at Franciscan Alliance Dyer Hospital.
Daniel was born Sept. 21, 1972, in Indianapolis, where he lived until eighth grade, when his family moved to Warsaw.
Daniel earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Purdue University, West Lafayette, where he was a member of the Delta Theta Sigma fraternity. After graduation, he worked as an environmental engineer for GE Environmental Co.
Daniel went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in secondary education with a focus in science from Purdue Calumet, then ultimately a master’s degree in the same field. Daniel found his passion teaching science and taught at Grimmer Middle School. He was an assistant coach of football and track and field. He was previously the head coach of the Science Olympiad Team. He also worked briefly at Fegley Middle School, where he founded their first Science Olympiad Team and was involved with wrestling as an assistant coach.
Daniel belonged to the Portage YMCA. He was very committed to his health and his hobby of running. He had completed the Indy Mini Marathon, Warrior Dash, Spartan Race, Tough Mudder and numerous 5Ks. He was training for the Chicago Marathon.
Daniel was a devoted husband, father, son, brother and friend.
He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Heather Smith Runyan; two children, Avery Evelyn and Cole Daniel; parents, Don and Valerie Runyan, Warsaw; four siblings: Michael Gary (Patti) Runyan, Huntsville, Ala.; Jennifer Lynn (Daniel) Buskirk, Mason, Mich.; and Edward Don (Jackie) Runyan and Tim Scott Runyan, all of Warsaw; and numerous nieces, nephews and other loving family.
Daniel was preceded in death by his grandparents, George and Ruth Runyan and Leslie and Evelyn Grove.
A celebration of life for Daniel will be held at a later date. Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, is assisting with arrangements.
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Memorials to Daniel’s family through gofundme.com: www.gofundme.com/5ncat-runyan-family-support-fund.
Go to www.reesfuneralhomes.com to extend condolences.
