Daniel George Burchik

Burchik, Daniel G. MADISON/BLANCHARDVILLE-Daniel G. Burchik, age 58, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 16, 2011, after a long illness. He was born on Jan. 23, 1953, the son of Joseph and Mildred (Gilbertson) Burchik. Dan graduated from La Follette High School in Madison, then received his B.S. and M.S. in science and education from UW-Platteville. While in both high school and college, Dan was a star athlete in football, wrestling, and track. He taught and coached at several colleges ranging from Ball State to the University of Southern Colorado. Dan also taught high school science in both Wisconsin and Colorado. After leaving his teaching position in Colorado, Dan settled in on the family farm in Blanchardville. Dan purchased his own semi and started his own trucking company, driving from coast to coast. He continued driving until his illness forced him to quit. Dan met everyone with a big smile and hardy laugh. He was able to engage anyone in a thoughtful conversation and could talk on almost any topic. He never met a stranger and had friends laughing with him across the United States. His sense of humor was very unique. Dan had a keen interest in water, whether it be dehydrated water, Gnome water or just ice. His creative mind was always working. Dan enjoyed leisurely drives, making wine, cooking, watching movies, spending time with his dogs, and participating in, coaching and watching sports. Dan is survived by his mother, Mildred “Millie” Burchik; brother, Joseph (Wendy) Burchik; special friend, Cindy Walker; and cousins, Sharon Zindars, Ernie Gilbertson, Robert (Connie) Burchik, Kathleen (Mark) Carter, and Jimmy (Carrie) Mismash. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Burchik Sr. in 1997. A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 21, 2011. A luncheon will follow the service. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Friday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Humane Society. A special thank you to Dr. Catherine Beckman, and all of the staff and nurses at Meriter ICU for all their loving care. Dan will long be remembered by his family and friends for his thoughtfulness, generosity and quick wit. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Humane Society. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Friday. A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 21, 2011.