Daniel Van Beek age 76 passed away on January 6, 2026. Born on July 19, 1949 in Green Bay, Wi. To the late Peter and Thelma (De Keyser) Van Beek.
He graduated from Marinette Catholic Central High School in 1967. Post-graduation Dan worked with his father at the family businesses; and later became the owner and operator of Pete’s Sport Shop. He later owned and operated the Outback located on the Old Peshtigo Road which is well known as a friendly local gathering place often featuring live music, hosting events, and supporting local charities.
Dan loved the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his dad, son, brothers, nephews, and friends often traveling to diverse areas including Alaska’s Brooks Range and the Yukon River, the states of Idaho, Montana, Colorado, Wyoming, and Ontario Canada. In his spare time Dan enjoyed relaxing at his spring feed pond which held a variety of sport and bait fish. He always had a spare rod and reel available for anyone who wanted to try their luck; and introduced many kids to the joy and wonder of fishing.
His love of animals leaned heavily toward dogs. His canine pal, “Foster Cash,” became a well-known fixture at the Outback, who was known for often collecting payment from patrons and bringing it to Dan at the till as well as playing the piano.
Dan was a life-long Packers and Brewers fan, and for some time piloted busloads of patrons to games and events. He had a deep love of music, often texting his siblings and friends’ attachments of nostalgic and soul-searching pieces by a variety of artists and genres.
Dan is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, John and Kimberly Van Beek; grandchildren Megan (Ryan) Graef, and Mc Kenzie (fiancée Colton Dessart); great grandchildren Scarlett, Everleigh, and Ashton; sister Linda (Van Beek) Kispert; brothers Peter (Sue), Paul (Nancy), Tom (Sara), and Jim (Mary); as well as many nieces and nephews. Along with his parents he was proceeded in death by his brother-in-law William Kispert.
Funeral services for Dan were held Saturday, Jan. 17th at Berth & Rosenthal Funeral Home, followed by a celebration of life at “The Outback”. Burial was in Riverside Cemetery, in Peshtigo.
