Daniel James Przybylski

In Loving Memory of Daniel "Jim" Przybylski June 28, 1943 - September 19, 2025 Daniel "Jim" Przybylski, age 82, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025, at Ely Bloomenson Community Hospital, surrounded by love. Dan was born on June 28, 1943, in Gilman, Wisconsin, to John and Anna Przybylski. At the age of two, his family moved to Minnesota, where he would go on to build a life rooted in hard work, deep family values, and a strong commitment to his community. He graduated from Ely Memorial High School in 1961 and later earned an associate's degree from Vermilion Community College. Dan began his career at Reserve Mining Company and worked in the logging industry-both roles that reflected his enduring work ethic and connection to the land. In 1964, Dan proudly enlisted in the United States Army, serving as a Military Police Officer at Fort Eustis, Virginia. He was honorably discharged in 1966 and returned to Babbitt to resume work in mining and logging. On September 2, 1967, Dan married the love of his life, Donna (Putzel). The two shared 58 years of marriage filled with partnership, adventure and much love. They lived in Babbitt for five years before settling in Ely, where Dan and several of his brothers took over Anderson Produce, fondly referred to as "The Chicken Farm." Following the closure of Reserve Mine, Dan took on many roles - selling insurance, logging, preparing taxes - and always found ways to provide for his family. He served as the Financial Aid Director at Vermilion Community College for 10 years, where he assisted countless students access opportunities for education. Later, Dan and Donna built a thriving business together - D&D Accounting - where he continued to work full-time until his passing. A dedicated public servant, Dan spent 11 years on the Ely City Council, working diligently on various committees to improve and enrich the community he so deeply loved. Dan had a passion for the outdoors. He cherished fishing and camping trips on Isabella Lake, hunting with family around the area, and playing games of cards and dominoes. He especially loved taking spontaneous road trips with Donna and spending quality time with his family. Whether gathering for holidays, birthdays, or simple dinners, Dan found great joy in being surrounded by loved ones, sharing stories, laughter and the warmth of togetherness. He was incredibly proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and his love for them was evident in everything he did. Dan is survived by his devoted wife, Donna; children: Tina (Joe) Foster, Janelle (Mike) Terrance, and Jamie; grandchildren: Jenn (Michael), Sarah (Kody) Quast, Tommy (Erin) Terrance, Joe (Mara), and Abby; and great-grandchildren: Hayden (Sarah/Kody) and Sophie (Tommy/Erin). He is also survived by his sisters-in-law: Eunice Przybylski, Susie Przybylski, and Louise Condit; his special brother-in-law, John Plevell; many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; and two especially dear nephews, Aaron and Boone. Dan was preceded in death by his parents, John and Anna; five brothers: John, Leonard (Bill), Nick, Alex, and Dennis; sisters-in-law: Hazel, Carol, Shirley, and Joanne; his special brother-in-­law, Norm Condit; and his cherished cousin Sharon Jorgensen and her husband, Dave. A funeral service to honor Dan's life will be held on Saturday, October 4th at Grace Lutheran Church in Ely, MN. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., with the service to follow at 11:00 a.m. A gathering for family and friends will take place immediately afterward at Miner's Dry House. Dan lived a life marked by love, service, and integrity. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Family arrangements have been entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home in Ely. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Daniel James Przybylski, please visit our floral store.