Daniel William Younker, born on June 7, 1935, in Greenville, Ohio, passed away peacefully at Garden Gate Health Care Facility in Cheektowaga, NY on June 17, 2024. Dan is survived by his devoted wife Kathleen Younker (née Teuber), his loving children Jonathan (Karen Maloney-Younker) Younker and Laura (Michael Keller) Younker, and his treasured grandchildren Xavy, Jonas, and Ben. He was the beloved son of Paul and Carol Younker (née Martin) and the cherished brother of Nancy (Bob) Barry.
Dan (never Dr. Younker) was a proud Ohioan and alumnus of Greenville High School, Ohio University (BA), the University of Nebraska (MA), and the University of Michigan (PhD in History). His academic career spanned over three decades, during which he inspired countless students as a history professor at St. Cloud State University (St. Cloud, MN), Bishop's University (Lennoxville, Québec), and Champlain College (Lennoxville, Québec).
A dedicated scholar, Dan was a lifelong researcher with a particular passion for British imperial history. He was an avid reader, with a special fondness for mysteries, adventure novels, but particularly humourists including (but not limited to): Mark Twain, Stephen Leacock, and Dave Barry. His hobbies were his passions, and he had fondness for model railroads and trains, especially Pennsylvania Railroad memorabilia, classical music, watching baseball and football (Especially Michigan & Nebraska games, always with the sound muted), coffee ice cream, and his dogs.
Dan's humility and hardworking nature were evident throughout his life. Even after retiring from 30+ years in academia, he embraced a manual labour job at a bookstore in Minnesota, showcasing his Midwestern work ethic and integrity. Known for his self-deprecating humour, he often referred to himself as a "certified old fart", and "a curmudgeon" from his 50s onwards to everyone he met, whether he knew them or not. His Southern Ohio accent, with words like "lish" for leash and "ruff" for roof brought quizzical looks and then laughter to those around him, especially his children and grandchildren.
In his later years, Dan and Kathie moved to Buffalo, NY, to be closer to their children and grandchildren, and "to escape the harsh Minnesota winters," and enjoyed being part of the South Buffalo neighbourhood community, lake effect snow notwithstanding.
A life well-lived, Dan will be remembered for his humility, honesty, and unwavering dedication to his family and profession. His legacy of knowledge, humor, and love will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the SPCA in his honour.
Rest in peace, Dan/Dad/Grandpa. You will be dearly missed.
Daniel W. Younker
Jun 7, 1935 - Jun 17, 2024
Most recently of Buffalo, NY. Beloved husband of Kathleen Younker (née Teuber);
dearest father of Laura (Michael Keller) Younker and Jonathan (Karen Maloney-Younker) Younker; cherished grandpa of Xavy, Jonas and Ben; dearest brother of Nancy (Bob) Barry; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Family will re- ceive friends on Monday, June 24th from 4-7 PM at LOOMIS, OFFERS & LOOMIS INC. FUNERAL HOME (Memorial Chapel) 1820 Seneca Street Buffalo, NY 14210. Flowers gratefully declined, memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA.
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