Daniel Paul Bockert

Daniel Paul Bockert, "Diamond Dan," 70, passed into glory on August 18, 2025, at his home in Chattanooga, TN, his beloved wife by his side. Visitation will be 3-7 pm Thursday, August 18, 2025. A service will be held on August 22, 2025, at 10:30 am at Calvary Chapel in Chattanooga, TN.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, John and Sybil Bockert, his sister-in-law, Ann (Coe) Bockert, and his nephew, Stephen Bockert.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Anne Bockert, his brothers Mike Bockert and John (Shelley) Bockert, his daughters Sarah June (Bernard) Wallace, Esther Harmony (Chris) Sarine, Anna Melody (Damion) Rarig, Rebekah Grace (Brian) Goedde, and Leah Faith Bockert, thirteen grandchildren, one great-grandson, and several nieces and nephews.

Dan was born on January 6, 1955, in Des Moines, Iowa, to John and Sybil (Turk) Bockert. He was an early reader with a bright, capable mind. An accomplished Eagle Scout, he developed practical skills and a great love of the outdoors. He learned to play the saxophone and developed stage presence through participating in band and theater. He gave his life to Christ as a teen. Shortly after completing his secondary studies in Des Moines, Iowa, he organized and hosted a Christian radio show on a local rock station. He was 19 years old, and he called it "The White Fields Hour," because, as he said, "The fields were white unto harvest." (John 4:35). Beginning in his youth and continuing throughout his lifetime, his witness for Christ drew others into the kingdom of God.

Dan was a true renaissance man: he held a thirst for knowledge which led to a lifelong pursuit of truth and learning. He attended Covenant College, obtaining a BA in Biblical Studies and a minor in Education. He was a thinker; an intellectual, and a wordsmith. He had a deep and abiding love of God's word. He honored the call of Eccl. 9:10 "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might." He was an articulate writer, a meticulous editor, and a compelling storyteller. As a literary craftsman throughout his professional career, he edited and co-wrote many books and journals. Though unusually adept, he always sought to bless others, edifying his co-workers through faithful service. Dan's presence in the workplace (and everywhere else) can be characterized by Matthew 5:16 "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven." James 3:13, 17 describe him perfectly: "Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? Let him show out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom… The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy." With such wisdom, he was able "to live righteously, and godly in this present world" (Titus 2:12).

Dan pioneered and participated in several musical groups, with an emphasis on music that glorified God and brought folks together for fun and fellowship (a talent inherited from his mother). Bands like New American Standard and New Song were a prelude to his legendary college band at Covenant, Diamond Dan and the Cut Gems, which covered songs from his childhood era and beyond. Dan was a one-of-a-kind showman with a powerful stage presence. The relationships forged through his musical endeavors lasted to the end of his life.

Dan and Susan cherished 43 years of marriage. Theirs was the finest of all his collaborations. He guarded his faith, testimony and marriage and loved Susan as his own self (Eph. 5:33). He was consistent, steadfast, and faithful, upholding his family in prayer. He was a good father and grandfather, emulating his heavenly Father. He loved to read to children, encouraged learning, and thoughtfully gifted books aligning with other's interests. Sensitive to needs and generous with encouragement, he was eager to place a well-timed pun, musical lyric, or bible verse. He always took the time to listen. He made everyone, and especially his family, feel seen and unconditionally loved (1 Peter 4:8). When asked for advice, he would often respond with 1 Cor. 13:4, "Love is patient, love is kind… it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs..." Dan and Susan labored in life side by side, taking on challenges with creativity, passion, and humor. They enjoyed studying scripture, communing in nature, reading, antique and home restoration, and of course, music. He also loved history and ancestry research, which he compiled for his family records. What Dan and Susan created together stood the test of time and honored the ultimate Creator. His legacy is one of unwavering faith to the end, "being confident…that He who began a good work in you, will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." (Phillipians 1:6).

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Arrangements by Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Chapel.