Daniel Christopher DeCroes

Daniel Christopher DeCroes-known lovingly as "Faja," "Grandpa Dan," "Danny Boy," "Daddio" or "Dan the Man"-passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at Inova Fairfax Hospital, surrounded by his three daughters. He was 65.
Born in Libya, Africa, on September 24, 1959, Dan lived a life full of adventure from the very beginning. As the son of Sam, a Navy veteran and CIA officer, and Gerry, a devoted mother, Dan grew up across the globe-calling Iran, Norway, the Philippines, Laos, Rome, Hawaii, and Bangkok home before settling in Virginia for his final years of high school. He graduated from Osbourn Park High School in 1977.
Dan met his wife, Karen, while working at Thrifty Car Rental in Dulles. Together, they built a beautiful life, moving from Clifton to Springfield, Haymarket, and finally Gainesville. But Dan's proudest accomplishment was his family. He was a devoted father to Brittany ("Daughter Number 1"), Courtney ("Daughter Number 2"), and Jordyn ("Daughter Number 3"), and a father figure to his nephew and best buddy, Michael-the son he never had.
Dan had an unmatched knowledge of the car industry, beginning his career at Thrifty and rising to top leadership roles. His work ethic, loyalty, and generosity opened doors not only for himself but for countless friends and family members he helped along the way.
He was a loyal friend, a loving brother to Ginny, Ricky, and Donna, and a man who always made sure ends were met, even in the toughest times. His sense of humor, love for sports (especially the Redskins, Nationals,Terps and Capitals), and passion for coffee, banana ice cream, Red Bull- the sweet nectar of life- as he called it, and love of funny and ridiculous t-shirts made him unforgettable.
Dan took immense pride in watching his three daughters graduate from James Madison University, watching Brittany get her doctorate from George Washington University and being able to walk down the aisle on their wedding days. He supported them every step of the way and never missed a chance to share their accomplishments with anyone who would listen. His pride in their successes was boundless, and his love for them was the foundation of everything he did.
In 2018, Dan was diagnosed with cancer. He faced the disease with unwavering courage, resilience, and humor-never losing his spark or leaving one joke off the table. He was always ready to keep fighting and tackle the next unfair challenge thrown his way. His greatest joys in recent years were his grandchildren: Hunter, Leigh, Hayden, and Taylor. Whether it was long walks with Hunter, intense Uno matches, pizza parties, or picking out the perfect unique or hilarious gifts, Dan cherished every moment with them and always wanted to be present.
Dan's life was a testament to strength, love, and loyalty. His friendships-many spanning decades-were a reflection of the kind of man he was. His "brother from another mother," Johnny, and many others stood by him through it all.
A memorial service will be held at Kyger Funeral Home in Harrisonburg on Monday, July 7, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., with a celebration of life to follow at a location to be announced.
Knowing he isn't in pain and running free with all his favorite dogs in heaven brings peace to our hearts. Dan's legacy lives on in the hearts and souls of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered and we wish he could have been here longer with us.