Daniel Alan VANDERPLOEG

1937 - 2014

Died peacefully at home in Oakdale, Minnesota on August 16, 2014. He was 76 years old. He was born in Arpin, Wisconsin on October 22, 1937 to Simon and Marie VanderPloeg. Dan lived with Parkinson's Disease for 21 years, complicated by Lewy Body Dementia towards end of life. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Anita VanderPloeg, children Karen VanderPloeg, Julie (David) Kadrie, and David (Jessica) VanderPloeg , and by grandchildren Kaitlin, Daniel and Erin Ripley, Michael, Anna and Joshua Kadrie, and Oliver and Frances VanderPloeg. Dan was a graduate of United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, and an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ. He served for 46 years in local churches and at the regional level. Dan was a compassionate, committed minister and touched many lives as pastor, teacher, leader, friend. He will be remembered for the difference he made in people's lives and in society as he responded to the biblical call for love, peace and justice. He was a pioneer in his active support for the LGBT community in the church. Dan approached life with wit, humor and wisdom. He enjoyed singing with barbershop choruses, attending plays and concerts, fishing, traveling, golf, and the occasional game of Rail Baron. He shared those joys with friends and family. Dan was surrounded by family at the time of his death. He much appreciated all the visits and care he received, and his family deeply appreciates all the friends and colleagues who were such an important part of his life. He bequeathed his body to the University of Minnesota for medical research/education. Please join us to celebrate Dan's life August 23rd at 11 a.m. at Spring House Ministry Center, 610 West 28th St. in Minneapolis, with visitation one hour preceding the service. A luncheon and more opportunity to visit will follow. Memorials to: Lyndale United Church of Christ in Minneapolis, Minnesota Conference United Church of Christ in Minneapolis, Lakeland College in Sheboygan WI, or United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities in New Brighton.