Dan Whalen Burgess

Dan Whalen Burgess, age 87, of Grayling, MI passed away peacefully at his home on November 12, 2025.

Dan was born to Charles and Anna (Whalen) Burgess in Detroit, MI on July 14, 1938. He was proud of his service in the United States Army. Dan worked as a horse breeder for the majority of his working career. In retirement, he lived in his secluded cabin in the woods of northern Michigan where he enjoyed watching the wildlife, fishing with friends and hosting gatherings with friends and family to enjoy the catch. He was a fan of deer hunting and hosting “deer camp” even after his hunting days were over. In the last few years, he managed to convince a few deer to eat from his hand! Most of all, he enjoyed spending his time surrounded by the tall pines, graceful deer, mischievous squirrels, chattering birds, and the occasional visiting bear or two.

Dan found love the second time around in 1992 when he was reunited with Norma Petix Scullen, who added beautiful flower gardens and a certain elegance to the cabin.

Dan is survived by his three stepdaughters, Mary Ellen Scullen (Andrew Kulemeka), Stephanie (Bill) Trombly, and Lynn (David) Gray, and granddaughters Moyenda Kulemeka and Chikondi Kulemeka. He was preceded in death by grandson Owen Kulemeka and their cherished Yorkies Bubba, Tara, April, Shadow, Trudy and Bruiser.

A private gathering to remember Dan was held in November in his beloved woods.

Arrangements entrusted to Sorenson-Lockwood Funeral Home.