Daniel "Dan" John Buckley

Daniel “Dan” John Buckley of Merrill, Michigan

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away suddenly at his home with his family by his side on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. He was 78 years old. Daniel John Buckley was born on March 30, 1946, at the family home in Merrill, Michigan to the late Andrew and Alice (Hyatt) Buckley. He was a 1964 graduate of Merrill High School. Dan proudly served his country by enlisting in the Army National Guard from 1967 – 1972 and was activated during the Detroit Riot. He met the love of his life, Sharyl Lee Herhold, while in high school. They dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage on August 19, 1967; she survives him. Dan was employed with Kenny Farms for over 20 years and with Dow Corning as an equipment operator for over 30 years of loyal and dedicated service. The role of his lifetime, one he treasured and cherished above all others, was to be a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Dan was a lifelong member of St. John XXII Parish, Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He civically served his community with the Merrill Sports Boosters and Merrill Youth Basketball volunteering countless hours for the betterment of the community. The quintessential family man, Dan, loved being a grandfather and creating special bonds with each and everyone. He was the proud grandfather who attended all their school and sporting events. Dan was an avid sports fan, always cheering for his favorite teams, Michigan State University and the Merrill Vandals. He was meticulous and enjoyed spending time mowing and manicuring his lawn to perfection. Dan was protective, handy, and selflessly loved his family, especially his grandchildren. Dan will forever and lovingly be remembered by his nickname “Boone”, for the many “union meetings” held in the shed, and for truly living an amazing life filled with many beautiful memories and stories.

Surviving are his wife of 57 years, Sharyl L. Buckley of Merrill; three children: Jeff (Jackie) Buckley of Merrill; Jason (Lori) Buckley of Merrill; Joel (Kristy) Buckley of Hemlock; 11 grandchildren: Brad (Jill), Joshua (Cheyenne), Alexa (Matthew), Brooke (Ben), Kyleigh (Cameron), Taylor, Michael, Bryce, Braden, Collin, and Quinn; eight great-grandchildren; a sister, Doris (Jesse) Estrada of Farwell; three brothers, Michael Buckley of FL; Jerry (Bonnie) Buckley of Merrill; Doug (Vicki) Buckley of Merrill. Also surviving are countless nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Alice Buckley; brother, Arthur (Eileen) Buckley; sister-in-law, Diane Buckley; and father- and mother-in-law, John and Mary Herhold.

A Funeral Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at St. John XXIII Parish, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 419 S. Midland St. Merrill, MI 48637. Rev. Fr. Michael F. Steltenkamp, S.J. will officiate. Honoring Dan’s wishes, cremation will follow the service. Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 125 E. Saginaw St., Merrill, MI 48637, on Friday, January 10, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and at the church on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Merrill High School Athletic Department or Jonesfield/Lakefield Fire Department. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home, church, or through www.casefuneralhome.com.