Daniel James Newberry

HARMONY GROVE - Daniel J. Newberry, age 64, of Harmony Grove, passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

Dan was born on September 3, 1961, in Denver, Colorado, the son of Raymond John and Margaret Ann (Novinska) Newberry. He married the “love of his life”, Kim Freund, on September 5, 1987, in Clearwater, Florida. Together Dan and Kim raised their two sons in Harmony Grove, where Dan made his home, his stories, and his lasting friendships.

For more than 40 years, Dan worked with Southern Wisconsin Roofing, becoming a trusted crane operator whose steady hand and quiet competence earned the respect of many in the trades. He looked gruff on the outside but was, as those close to him knew, a big teddy bear with a kind heart. Friends and family called him Dan, Danny, Newbs, Newby, Grizzly Adams and Mountain Man - names that captured his warmth, humor, and the rugged charm he wore like his favorite flannel.

Fishing was woven through Dan’s life like a favorite tale handed down by the lake. He delighted most in teaching his sons and grandson how to bait a hook, read the water and be patient for the tug on the line. He could not imagine life without a dog by his side, loved gin martinis for special occasions, and could be found singing while listening to music he loved - Little Drummer Boy being one of his favorites any time of year.

A man of faith and strong convictions, Dan raised his sons with those same values and made sure they all attended Sunday Mass. When his "boys" were grown, he continued his devotion by making certain his mother could attend Mass weekly. He was a devoted son, husband and father who led with example rather than words.

Dan was a great Griller, made the best Spaghetti and Meatballs and always made sure his family didn't go hungry. He was an avid sports fan - a loyal Denver Broncos supporter, and a devoted viewer of football at every level, NASCAR, hockey and basketball, especially March Madness as he loved watching the young athletes give it their all.  When his boys were young, he spent countless hours cheering from the sidelines, coached them in little league, and enjoyed the "family and friends” annual camping trips.

In addition to Kim, his wife of nearly 40 years; survivors include his sons, Gabriel Newberry and his son Gage, Nick Newberry and girlfriend Lindsay; sisters-in-law Donna Freund and Michele Newberry; brother-in-law Michael Freund; nephews Jason and Benjamin Freund, and Tyler Newberry; nieces Jeanette and Elizabeth Newberry; great-nieces Katrina and Annaka Freund; and many dear friends and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Joe Newberry; brother-in-law Greg Freund; and many aunts, uncles and close friends.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON LODI FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 157 S. Mains St., Lodi, at 11 am on Saturday, June 13th, followed with a celebration of life at the WADDLE INN, N1430 Hwy. 113, Lodi, from 12:30 pm until 4 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to Fishing Has No Boundaries, FHNB Inc, PO Box 175, Hayward WI 54843, Take a Vet Fishing-Wisconsin, PO Box 2253, Kenosha, WI. 53141-2253 or Jenni and Kyle Preserve - Foundation for Dane County Parks, 5201 Fen Oak Drive #208, Madison, WI 53718.

For more information and online condolences, please visit www.gundersonfh.com

Gunderson Lodi

Funeral & Cremation Care

157 S. Main St.

(608) 592-3201