Daniel James McKian

Daniel James McKian, 48 of Charleston, South Carolina, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2026 after a courageous 11 month long battle with cancer.

Born on September 12, 1977 in Dearborn, Michigan, Dan had a wonderful childhood surrounded by his siblings and cousins. He was a gifted athlete at Plymouth Salem High School and went on to play basketball at Siena Heights University. He was well respected as a leader on and off the court.

Dan spent 25 years climbing the ranks at RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company. In his time at Reynolds, Dan managed hundreds of people. He prided himself on the relationships he built with his team and customers. Dan was hardworking, loyal and proud of his career.

The greatest legacy Dan leaves behind is his family. He spent 21 years building a beautiful life with his wife Jenn. He was endlessly proud of his 4 children whom he adored - Avery (17), James Daniel (15), Collins (12) and Louis (8). His happiest days were spent coaching his kids on and off the court and playing ball in the driveway. Dan spent the past 5 years living his dream life on Daniel Island - boating with family and friends, golfing with the guys, having a drink at the men's lounge, playing cards with his family, and taking after dinner walks around the lake with Jenn - it was the best life.

Daniel is preceded in death by his grandparents, Eddie and Virginia Rusin; and Anna and Frank McKian.

In addition to his wife and children, Dan is survived by his loving parents, Dan and Kathleen McKian; his dedicated sister, Jenny Boggio (Rich); and brother, Jeff McKian (Bri). He also leaves behind dear in-laws, Barbara Krekel; Elizabeth Morris (Nathan); and Susan Borgerding (Bob). He will always be remembered as the fun Uncle Dan to his 8 adoring nieces and nephews.

Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 10:00 am on March 21, 2026 at Saint Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, 990 Etiwan Park Street on Daniel Island in Charleston. The family will gather at the church at 9:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lowcountry Orphan Relief, PO Box 70185 North Charleston, SC 29405.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com/.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral Home, 1520 Rifle Range Rd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464, (843) 884-3833.