Retired Major Daniel P. Kallenbach, 82, passed away on February 12, 2025. Dan was born in Shell Lake, Wisconsin on October 26, 1942. He graduated from Shell Lake High School then earned his college degree at the University of Wisconsin LaCrosse. Dan became a commissioned officer of The United States Air Force in 1966 and served 20 years as a successful fighter pilot. Dan is a veteran of the Vietnam War, where he earned many awards and medals to include three Distinguished Flying Crosses. During his Air Force career Dan piloted the T-37, T-38, F-4, F-111, OV-10 and O-2. Most of his flight hours were earned in the F-111 (his “favorite”), both in the United States and abroad. He retired in 1986 and returned “home” to Shell Lake with his family.
Dan’s love of flying paved the way for a pilot position with the Department of Natural Resources where he worked several years before really retiring and becoming a full-time golfer. When he wasn’t on the golf course you could find Dan taking advantage of living on Shell Lake, enjoying boating, water sports and fishing. He was always up for an adventure and loved the outdoors. Our favorite family memories are those of travels, camping, and getting to appreciate the beauty of our country.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Alta (Blyton) and Harold; brother Cliff; his wife of 34 years, Judy; and second wife Jean.
He is survived by brothers Jack (Gayle) and Mark (Stephanie); children, Kim (Don), Carrie (Jason) and Scott (Shannon); grandchildren, Tyler, Madeline, Mason and Abigail.
The family would like to thank the caregivers at Our House Senior Living, New Richmond, Wisconsin who cared for our beloved father since April of 2023.
Services with Military Honors will be held at 1:00 PM, Friday, April 4, at Spooner Veterans Memorial.