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BORN
1969
DIED
2021
Daniel Dieterich Obituary
Daniel Taylor Dieterich, 51, died Friday, January 1, 2021, in Madison, Wisconsin. Dan was born on November 11, 1969—a cold and snowy morning—to Daniel John and Diane Dieterich, Champaign, Illinois, at Burnham City Hospital. He lived there until 1976 when his family moved to Stevens Point so his father could teach at UWSP.
Dan began Suzuki piano lessons in 1976. While attending Stevens Point Area Senior High School, he played trombone, bass, and euphonium (because he was the only one who could play it) in the jazz band. He also took bass guitar lessons at UWSP. He graduated from SPASH in 1987 and attended UWSP for a year before moving to Madison, where he held several jobs—including as a photographer, graphic artist, and chef.
He received a degree in graphic arts from Madison Area College, but his first love was always music. He was a backup musician for "banshee mandolinist" John Kruth and played bass in such bands as Ted, Clip the Daisies, Fuzzdolly, and Mad Trucker Gone Mad. Since 2002, he was bass player and lead singer in Brainerd. He was also a member of Hiram Lodge #50, Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin.
He was a charismatic, enthusiastic leader; a generous gift-giver; and a good friend to many. He always went the extra mile to help people out—especially those down on their luck. He will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his partner, Jennifer Garde of Friesland, WI; his son, Daniel Sebastian Dieterich, Stevens Point; his parents, Daniel John and Diane Dieterich, Stevens Point; his brother, John Dieterich (Keiko Beers), Albuquerque; his former wife, Lisa Block, Kenosha; his aunts, Peg Dieterich, Plover; Mary Lark, Milford, MA; and Mary Dieterich, Louisburg, KS ; and his cousins: Drew Dieterich, Louisburg, KS; Dale Dieterich, Louisburg, KS; and David Dieterich, Scottsdale, AZ; Amanda Lockwood, West Roxbury, MA; Katie Lark, Webster, MA; Chris Lark, East Bridgewater, MA; Laura Gondek Cusson (Al), Milton, GA; Amy (Peter) Reilly, Alpharetta, GA; Michael (Alyson) Gondek, Chattanooga; Christine (Matt) Esposito, Las Vegas, NV; and Claudia Grimaldi, San Jose.
A small family memorial service will be held now, and an outdoor musical celebration of his life will be held later in Madison. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Dan's memory to either the Suzuki Education Enhancement Fund at https://give.uwsp.edu/give-now & designate Suzuki Fund #4853) or MusiCares at https://www.grammy.com/musicares/donations, the Recording Academy's foundation to help experienced musicians affected by the COVID19 pandemic.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Daniel Dieterich
Sponsored by the Stevens Point Journal.
Brian Kelley
January 5, 2023
After two years I know it newly that it is a world without a dear friend whose being made life a particular flavor of delicacy. It is now very different. And I shed a tear or two for the music and laughter of a kind that will not be heard again.
Brian Kelley
January 2, 2022
It's hard to believe it has been a year. He was such a grand presence in the world and a beloved friend. My condolences to all who loved him and cherish his memory.
Lynette
January 18, 2021
God in love has promised
Grace for every trial
Strength for ever sorrow
Help for every mile
And may He in sympathy
And unfailing love impact
Help for each tommorow
And new courage to your ly
Katalinia virnig
January 16, 2021
May you rest in peace our thoughts are with family and friends
Sharon Baker
January 16, 2021
So very sad and sorry for all who love him. Such a kind guy. So sad.
Brian Kelley
January 13, 2021
Dan was a friend of mine and one time room mate. He was a special, one of a kind, creative guy who will be missed terribly. My condolences go to his family and the many, many others who cared for him. The photo included is from Trivia, 2010, when he and I were on the team, "How Do You Know If You Don't Know?"
Jason A Kayzar
January 13, 2021
This is tragic news. Dan, Isaac & Scott were probably the most influential friends I had while growing up. They taught me to be true to myself, and Dan was certainly the model for authenticity throughout his life.
Maureen Giblin
January 13, 2021
Dan, Diane, and John, you have my deepest sympathy. I am so sorry to hear of Daniels passing. The loss of a child, the loss of a brother, is the deepest sorrows. My heart goes out to you.
Maureen Giblin
Niki Pickart
January 11, 2021
I first met Dan while he was playing in Mad Trucker in Stevens Point where I instantly fell for his awesome bass playing and stage presence. He was a wonderful person with a heart of gold and I will miss him dearly
Isaac
January 11, 2021
I will always remember Dan as one of my very best friends in grade school and high school. He was extremely talented in so many ways.
Darwin Sampson
January 11, 2021
It’s impossible to express the loss we all feel completely. Dan was prolific and involved in many artistic endeavors. He was a force of nature. I am glad I got to see him perform with Brainerd in October of 2020. This is one of the pics I snapped that evening. Rest in Power, brother.
Tim Benn
January 11, 2021
Dan was was my brother in music (Fuzzdolly and Mad Trucker Gone Mad) and I will dearly miss him. My heart breaks for all of his friends and family. May memories of Dan be blessings to all. I will cherish them forever and always think of Dan every time I am on stage and know he is there with me.... Tim Benn
Paula Kramer
January 11, 2021
My condolences, Dan and Diane.
Anthony Leskinen
January 11, 2021
I had the pleasure to travel with Daniel Dietrich across America and into Canada. We played music and made people happy.
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