Dan R. Schanock

Dan R. Schanock, 75, of Green Bay, passed away in Sturgeon Bay on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at his Door County home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born January 4, 1951, in Kenosha, the son of the late Romaine and Mary (Ritter) Schanock. Dan spent part of his early years in Lake Forest, IL before his father moved the family to Green Bay to open what would be the first of many McDonald's Restaurants in the Green Bay area. He later graduated from Premontre Catholic High School in Green Bay and proudly followed in his father's footsteps by entering the McDonald's business. Over the course of 47 years, Dan built a distinguished career within McDonald's, becoming a respected owner and operator known for his dedication to his employees and the community. His interest in technology eventually inspired him to build his own entrepreneurial path, launching additional ventures including Satellite Receivers Limited and later purchasing Murphy Supply, a plumbing supply business in Green Bay. He was also a proud member of a unique club known as the "Sons of Bosses" (SOBs).

Dan was known for his playful humor, jokes, and quick wit. He loved making people laugh and enjoyed sending jokes and memes to friends and family as a simple way to stay connected and show he cared. He especially enjoyed spending time at his hunting land, golfing whenever he could, and had a lifelong interest in cars, electronics, and fixing things.

Dan treasured time spent with his granddaughters, enjoying fishing off the dock, taking them on boat rides, going cherry picking together, helping keep their bird feeders filled, and sharing a cherished memory trip to Disney World - creating special memories they will carry with them always. He also dearly loved his dogs, Mia and Molly, who were special companions and brought him great joy.

Dan especially loved spending summers up north in Fish Creek with family and friends. He enjoyed boating and could often be found zooming around town on his moped in search of live music or visiting favorite local spots such as "The Goat Bar", Bayside, AC Tap, and The Loft. He made sure anyone visiting Door County had a fun time and knew all the best places to go. He was often the life of the party, known for making his famous cherry bounce, a tradition he proudly carried on for decades. Dan also enjoyed cooking and was especially known for making the best Thanksgiving turkey, a tradition his family will always remember.

Dan also had a well-known love for Costco. He enjoyed frequent trips, walking every aisle, and rarely returned empty-handed - especially when bringing home fruit, snacks, and little surprises for his granddaughters, his son David, and his daughter-in-law.

Dan was truly a jack of all trades, known for his ability to fix just about anything. Everyone seemed to have Dan on speed dial when something needed fixing. He was also known as a selfless and generous man who was always willing to lend a helping hand to friends and family before thinking of himself.

Throughout his three-and-a-half-year battle with pancreatic cancer, Dan was a fighter. He remained positive and optimistic, often reassuring others that he was doing well, and faced his illness with strength and quiet courage.

Dan is survived by his son, David (Ashley) Schanock of Sturgeon Bay; his beloved granddaughters, Ellinor and Olivia; sisters, Debbie (Steve) Daffinson of Green Bay, Darcy (Emmett) Cregan of Sturgeon Bay, and Donna Stout of Green Bay; brother, David (Kim) Schanock of Green Bay; and many dear nieces and nephews. The thing Dan was most proud of was his son, David. Dan shared a very close relationship with his only son and was a proud and devoted father. He taught David the value of hard work, humility, and how to fix just about anything around the house. Their strong bond was evident throughout Dan's life and remained steadfast through his final days, as David stayed faithfully by his side.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Romaine and Mary Schanock; and his sister, Dee Dee Pavlik.

Dan will be remembered for his humor, generosity, love of family, and his ability to make every gathering a little more fun. He will especially be missed by his family, dear friends Rick Chernick, Jim Halron, and many others.

The family extends special thanks to caretaker Randi Tossoul, Patti Donovan, Dan's sister, Darcy Cregan, Dr. Evans, Dr. Groteluschen, as well as the staff at Froedtert, Green Bay Oncology, and Compassus Hospice whose compassion, care, and support brought comfort to Dan and his family during his illness.

Services in Sturgeon Bay and Green Bay will be held at a later date, with times and details to be announced.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Huehns Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Dan may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.