Daniel "Dan" Patrick Kolter

Daniel "Dan" Patrick Kolter, 54, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026, surrounded by the love and support of his family. He was born on July 14, 1971, in West Allis, Wisconsin.

Family was at the heart of everything Dan did. He was a devoted husband and father whose greatest pride was his wife, Tauna (Davis), and his children, Dylan (Julianna) Kolter and Caitlyn Kolter. Whether celebrating life's milestones or simply spending time together, Dan's love for his family was constant and unwavering. Family game nights with his parents, sister and brother-in-law, wife, and in-laws became treasured traditions filled with laughter, friendly competition, and memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Dan never outgrew his love of Star Wars. He was a lifelong fan who enjoyed everything the galaxy far, far away had to offer and was always happy to share that enthusiasm with others. One of his greatest joys was passing that love on to his daughter. While she may not have matched his level of dedication, the countless hours they spent together watching the movies and the many spin-off series became memories they both treasured.

Dan also had a lifelong appreciation for classic cars. Topping his Christmas wish list year after year was a 1971 Plum Crazy Purple Dodge Challenger. His passion for cars began with his father and grew into a shared interest with his son, and lifelong friend. Over the years, that circle expanded to include his father-in- law and brother-in-law, creating countless opportunities to attend car shows, swap stories, and enjoy time together.

The kitchen was one of Dan's favorite places to be. He loved cooking for family and friends, but chili was where his passion truly shone. Whenever he could, he entered the Wisconsin State Chili Cook-Off, enjoying not only the competition but also the friendships it created. In 2010, Dan earned the title of Wisconsin State Chili Champion, giving him the opportunity to compete at the World Championship Chili Cook-Off in Manchester, New Hampshire. Alongside his lifelong friend, Dave Doepke, he embarked on an unforgettable road trip filled with laughter, great memories, and stories he happily retold for years to come. Although he didn't bring home the world title, the experience itself was a victory. When he wasn't cooking, chances were good the Food Network or another cooking show was playing, as he was always looking for new ideas and inspiration.

Another favorite tradition was his friendly rivalry with a coworker during each season of Survivor. They placed wagers on whose team would have the last contestant standing, with the loser treating the winner to a night out. The celebration often included several close coworkers who happily joined in honoring the victor. While Dan certainly enjoyed winning (especially after enduring more than his fair share of losing seasons), what he loved most was the playful trash talk, the laughter, and the camaraderie he shared with friends.

Dan was preceded in death by his father, Thomas "Tom" Kolter.

He is survived by his loving wife, Tauna (Davis) Kolter; his children, Dylan (Julianna) Kolter and Caitlyn Kolter; his mother, Virginia "Ginney" (Waddington) Kolter; his sister, Shelley (Mark) Calder; his parents-in-law, Robert and Barbara Davis; his sister-in-law, Deanna "Dee Dee" (Rick) Likins; his brother-in-law, Wayne (Jodi) Davis, several nieces and nephews, along with many cherished extended family members and dear friends.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at Leikness Funeral Home in Wautoma. Relatives and friends may greet the family on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at the funeral home. A reception will follow at Camp Lakotah, N1875 21st Avenue, Wautoma, WI. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established in Dan’s memory. www.leiknessfuneralhome.com