Daniel George Brainard

Daniel George Brainard, age 53, of Rockford, passed away unexpectedly of accidental injuries on Thursday, September 30, 2021. Dan was born on February 8, 1968 to George and Jane Brainard.

Dan primarily grew up in Grand Rapids where he attended what is now known as Northpointe High School; he also graduated with an Associate’s Degree from Davenport University in Business. He used his degree as well as his natural gifts and talents to work for and later own Brainard Enterprises, building a reputation as a locker specialist and one of the highest selling reps in the area for Lyon products.

He met his wife Melissa at D&W when he ordered flowers for his grandparents 50th anniversary. Two weeks later, he came back to thank her and he married her 4 years later. He was a devoted father, cheering the loudest at sporting events and dance competitions for his two beautiful daughters. He was very much hands on and often accompanied them on school trips and volunteered for their many activities.

Dan was very athletic and played many sports throughout his life, but he was most passionate about running. He was a team leader for Gazelle Sports for many years and was an encourager and supporter to all. It was important for him to learn his fellow runners’ names and help them to reach their goals. He accomplished his own personal goal when he made the 2 hour club for the Amway River Bank Run in May 2019. He supported My Team Triumph by being an Angel and helping others to cross the finish line that may not have been able to do so on their own.

You would often see Dan around town trying out many of the local breweries, attending rock concerts, on the nature trails and riding his motorcycle. In 2009 Dan had heart valve replacement and found out his blood type was B Positive. From that day forward, he said what was pumping through his veins would be how he lived his life. He touched everyone’s life that he came into contact with trying to make their day a little brighter. He will be greatly missed by many.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Jane Brainard and mother-in-law, Mary Sterling. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 26 years, Melissa; daughters, Gabrielle and Lauren; father, George (Karen) Brainard; brother, David (Heather) Brainard; sister, Teri (Carl) Barnett; 5 nephews and 6 nieces, several aunts and uncles, and many friends who adore him.

Relatives and friends may meet the family on Thursday, October 7, 2021 from 5-8:00 pm at Stegenga Funeral Chapel, 1601 Post Dr., Belmont. Please bring a sticker that best reflects your relationship with Dan.

A celebration of life service will be held on Friday, October 8, 2021 at 11:00 at Bridgeway Community Church, 7700 Childsdale Ave NE, Rockford, with Pastor Mike Antuma officiating. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Michigan Chapter of My Team Triumph. https://www.mttwestmichigan.org/
Condolences may be sent online at stegengafuneralchapel.com