Daniel (Dan) Thomas McNeil, 72, passed away Dec. 21, 2022, at his residence in Froid, Montana. After working in the frigid cold weather, shoveling and snow blowing to the way for a propane delivery, he returned inside his home to warm up, where he died of an apparent heart attack.
Dan was born September 8, 1950, in Williston, ND. He grew up Froid, MT attending school and graduating high school. He formed lifelong friendships there, especially enjoying the fall and playing football with his teammates/ He entered the Navy upon graduation and then returned to Froid working numerous jobs while assisting on the Family farm with his father. Dan worked roustabout in the oil field with to companies (Pat Picard and B&G Roustabout Service), managed Harvest States Grain Medicine Lake, delivered fertilizer for Agland Co-op, mowed roadways for Roosevelt County, Etc. He made many acquaintances and lifelong friendships through these endeavors.
Upon his father’s retirement he continued his love of farming and ran the family farm until his own retirement. He looked forward all year long to Fall when he could climb on the combine to harvest with Mike and “The Corp”.
Dan enjoyed the company of a special group of friends in Froid. Together they cheered on the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, gathering to watch games, check on each other, and lift a Miller Lite. Your friendship and comradery were all very much loved and appreciated by Dan. Dan enjoyed his farming days with his dad, cherishing those times until his passing. Dan also had a special relationship with his mother. After his father died, he was her guardian angel, checking on her daily, sharing breakfast, taking care of her home and huge yard. Through his care mom was able to retain her independence and live alone until a broken hip led to finishing her life in the nursing home.
Dan had a special place in his heart for his numerous nieces and nephews. He looked forward to news of their many achievements in academics, athletics, work, family, and life.
Dani is survived by brother John (wife, Shirley, children Shawn, Brian, Brent and Lynette), brother Bill (wife Joan, children Ross, Erin and Collin) and sister Karen (daughter Shannon, stepchildren Cameron and Carson). He was preceded in death by his father James (Jim) McNeil, mother Phillis Winter McNeil, and brother-in-law Barry White. Cremation has taken place and interment will be this spring with a small gathering of close family and friends.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Julie Mackinnon says
Please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of Dan. May peace temper your sorrow.
Parker Quammen says
I remember Dan from an early age through high school mostly through my close friendship with his brother, Bill. I last saw Dan at the all-class school reunion in 2021 where we noted that we had not seen each other for decades. I remember Dan as quiet, kind, friendly, and polite. I remember Dan serving week after week as the altar boy for the mid-week Mass at the Catholic Church. I mourn his passing and wish his family comfort and peace.
Cynthia says
I remember Dan so clearly and am sad to hear of his death. May his memory be a blessing. Cynthia Skillingberg Thomas
David Ostby says
Sending my condolences and prayers for the McNeil family. With a brother playing basketball with John, a sister being a classmate of Bill’s, and me being sandwiched between Dan and Karen in school, I have a lot of memories of the McNeil family.
Erica Elvsaas says
Dan was a dear friend of my Dad’s as long as I can remember. As I grew into an adult he also became my friend. We will sure miss his sarcastic Vikings comments and his face at “his spot” at the table. My dearest condolences to the entire family. Rest easy, Dan. The Vikings sure delivered a sweet victory for your last game!
billy danielson says
Sorry and surprised to learn of Dan’s passing. My association with him was mostly in his elevator career. In the days of local elevators he was a natural. Small towns being what they are we met at other times too and I always appreciated his smile and sense of humor. He will be missed.
Cathie Rudolph says
I am just dumbfounded by hearing about this just today. I know Dan watched me grow up in the church, his brother married my cousin and mom was best friends with his mom, but we never got to really know one another. We were both kinda quiet at family gatherings, watching and listening to everyone else. I could tell he was a kind man, well loved, and will be missed amongst his friends and family.