FITCHBURG - Daniel Blaine “Dan” Colby, age 79, of Fitchburg, passed away on Thursday, November 6, 2025. He was born on April 11, 1946, the son of Amos and Dorothy (Hubanks) Colby. Dan graduated from Middleton High School with the class of 1964.

More than anything else in this world, Dan loved and lived for his three daughters. He called them every day. Even though his daughters are grown, he still often reminisced about the good days watching Sesame Street and Mister Rodgers with them.

Dan loved sitting outside on his patio overlooking the large green space at his apartment complex. He faithfully fed the birds and squirrels every day for many years. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, and as a young man he liked to hunt and fish. He was an intellectual at heart and could carry on a conversation with anyone. He enjoyed talking about history, philosophy, religion, and the world.

Dan was a proud member of the Fitchburg Serenity Club. He was a lover of classical music and Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals. While he privately battled with multiple sclerosis, he took each day in stride to the best of his ability.

Dan is survived by his daughters, Jacqueline "Jackie" (Jason) Rudolph, Alison (Ryan) O'Hara and Kathleen (Scott) Leifker; grandchildren, Gavin (Alyssa Carrillo) Rudolph, Garrett Rudolph, Gabe Rudolph and Conor Daniel O'Hara; brothers, Richard (Carol) Colby and Dale (Vickie) Colby; his daughters’ mother, JoAnn Woodford; as well as other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for the near future.

A special thank you to Ivan, who provided daily care for Dan the last several months and the special bond they created. Memorials may be made to Wisconsin Public Television or Wisconsin Public Radio.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Daniel Blaine Colby

April 11, 1946 - November 06, 2025

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