Daniel George Reak

Daniel George Reak

1943-2025

Daniel George Reak, 81, Park Rapids, MN was called to his eternal home on Monday, February 3, 2025, after a courageous four-year battle with stage four terminal cancer. As he took his final breaths within the four walls of his own home, exactly where he wanted to be, he was surrounded by his wife of 62 years and his four children.

Daniel was born April 30, 1943, in New Prague, MN to Stanley and Bessie (Picka) Reak and spent most of his younger years in Le Center, MN. On August 11, 1962, he was united in marriage to Alice Keough. They started their life together in Le Center, MN, eventually moving to Grand Rapids, MN. In retirement, they lived in Sauk Center, MN and finally found their way to Park Rapids, MN. While their primary residence consistently remained in MN, almost twenty years ago Daniel and Alice both found a love of Texas where they would winter with friends in the warmth and sunshine.

In his early career days, Daniel worked at Larson Industries as a warehouse foreman where he oversaw the shipping of pool tables. When he and Alice moved to Grand Rapids, he switched career paths and became a heavy equipment operator with Itasca County from where he retired.

Daniel was a man of many interests. He liked fishing, billiards, dancing, and playing cards with family and friends. He was known to enjoy a glass of scotch, his love for old country music, and the happiness he found in Sunday drives. Daniel and Alice loved to travel and if you ever asked him what his favorite trip was, he'd list several places, all of which would be different every time. It seemed impossible for him to pick just one.

He was a member of the Catholic Church.

Daniel is survived by his wife, Alice Reak of Park Rapids; his children, Brenda (Richard) Jones, Chris (Christine) Reak, Dawn (Rich) Batcho, Nicole (Terry) Turchin; grandchildren, Aaron Jones, Evan Jones, Nichole (Rob) Gasper, Rikki Mays-Reak, Jarod Reak, Brittany (Chaz) Dobias; great grandchildren, Ryker and Taven Dobias; and grand dog, Doc. Dan is also survived by five brothers (Donald, Allan, Roger, Doug, Steve), four sisters (Jane, Sue, Donna, MaryAnn), their spouses, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Bessie Reak, and others whom he loved and who loved him.

Also at Daniel's request, in lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider a donation to Hospice of the Red River Valley. Daniel's family will forever be grateful for Hospice and the wonderful care provided to him during his final months.

At Daniel's request, no funeral services will be held. A celebration of life is being planned for a later date.