Daniel Joseph Lutz, 69, of De Soto, MO, passed away on July 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Dan was born September 26, 1955 in Litchfield, IL, the son of Robert and Elsie Lutz (nee Kraigher). Dan grew up in New Douglas, IL and worked as a dairy farmer throughout his high school years at Wilmer and Norma Hemann’s farm. Dan graduated from Highland High School. After earning his degree at Ranken Technical College, he worked at Xerox as a field service engineer and national specialist for 38 years, retiring in 2016. After Dan retired, he traveled across the nation to see everything he wanted to see.

Dan was a loving father and dedicated grandfather. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, who were the joys of his life.

Dan was a committed community volunteer. He was recognized as the 2019-2020 De Soto Volunteer of the Year for his work beautifying the town. He was a Scoutmaster, inspiring and educating dozens of young men. He was a Little League Softball Coach for many years, affectionately known as “Coach Dan”, and eventually led his team to a state championship. He served on the De Soto Public Library Board for 10 years. He was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church and enjoyed volunteering at their rummage sales. He was a certified Master Gardener, and had a community garden he enjoyed tending with his children, grandchildren, and neighbors. He was an avid beekeeper, supplying many with honey. He shared his love of origami with hundreds of students, teaching them how to make German Bells.

Remaining to cherish Dan’s memory are his children, Regina “Gina” Batie (Jody), Jared Lutz, Jillian Lutz, and Bailey Rosen (Zachary); grandchildren, Sophia Maximilien-Lutz, Luna O’Brien, Kingsley Frierdich, Isla Maximilien-Lutz, Milo Rosen, and Cooper Kimble; siblings, Robert Lutz (Marjorie), Marie Lutz, Patrick Lutz (Janice), and Susan Aguilar (Henry); nieces and nephews, Sarah Lutz, Toni Aguilar, Kurt Aguilar (Mary), Erin Lutz; as well as Alexandra Maximilien-Lutz; the Hemann family, and many friends.

Preceding Dan in death are his parents, Robert and Elsie; brother Charles Stanley, and niece Micaela.

As an expression of sympathy memorial donations in Dan’s memory may be directed to the De Soto Public Library, 712 S. Main St., De Soto, MO 63020 or Jefferson County Beekeepers Association, 6600 Davis Ln., Cedar Hill, MO 63016.