Daniel Albert Kienitz

Daniel Albert Kienitz, DVM
Dimondale, Michigan
Daniel A. Kienitz, DVM, left this world on September 11, 2025, in Lansing, Michigan. Born on September 3, 1942, in Marine City, Michigan, Dan's journey through life was marked by dedication, compassion, and an unwavering love for his family and his community. Dan was a devout Christian and raised his children with strong faith, values and love.
Dan graduated from Marine City High School and moved on to the esteemed corridors of Michigan State University. In 1966, he graduated at the top of his class from the Michigan State University of Veterinary Medicine. This era of Dan's life also cemented his lifelong love for Michigan State University, a love that would color much of his personal and professional life.
For over four decades, Dr. Kienitz served the Dimondale community as the beloved local veterinarian. He owned and operated the Dimondale Pet Clinic, where he worked tirelessly as a one-man operation. Known for his friendly demeanor and love of conversation, his patients often anticipated spending extra time during their visits, finding both comfort and community within the walls of his clinic. Wherever his family went, they could always meet someone that Dr. Kienitz served with compassion.
He cherished the winter months spent in Florida with his wife Janice. They had many close friends where they could be found playing cards, making meals and laughing till all hours of the night. Dan loved his time in Florida where he could indulge in his passion for intercoastal fishing. As the ultimate outdoorsman, hunting and fishing were more than hobbies-they were a way of life. He was a proud and active member of the Ducks Unlimited Chapter at Michigan State University and maintained a strong connection with the Michigan State University Alumni Association. His loyalty to his alma mater was evident in his three-decade-long commitment to MSU Spartan football as a season ticket holder, celebrating every victory for the green and white. His love for sports extended to his favorite professional teams, the Detroit Lions and Tigers.
As a father, Dan was dedicated to raising his children and being present for every moment of their life. His love for adventure would lead them on Sunday drives down many two track Michigan roads, with no destination planned. When Dan became a grandpa he beamed with pride, being sure they all had a nickname and never missing their big life moments as well. This love carried on when he was blessed with great-grandchildren as well.
Dan's ability to connect with others, his dedication to his profession, and his boundless love for family and nature leave a legacy that will continue to inspire and touch the hearts of those he knew.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Ethel (Folting) Kienitz, his former wife, Margaret Kienitz, and three brothers Dr. Ronald Kienitz, James Kienitz, and Michael Kienitz.
He is survived by his loving wife of fifteen years, Janice (Sample) Kienitz; his children, Theresa Foster, Dave (Staci) Kienitz, Mike (Tiffany Warnaar) Kienitz, Jeremy (Kim) Kienitz, Eric Kienitz, David (Jeanie) Boes, Velvet (Tom) Wall, Dena (Pete) Smith, and Eric (Kristin) Nelson; grandchildren, Stephen, Jessica, Karissa, McKenzie (Michael), Alexia (Dalton, Austin (Shalanda), Taylor, Kora, Sydney (Ryan) and Rorie (Kaili), nine great-grandchildren; three sisters, Linda (Gerry) Molitor, Kathy Kienitz, and Julie Peak, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
A Memorial Service for Dan will be held on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 3:00 PM at the Palmer Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes, Holt Chapel. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 1:00-3:00 PM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Leukemia Society in memory of Dan.