Daniel Harris Link

Daniel Harris Link
March 5, 1949 - July 5, 2025

Beloved husband of Nancy for 44 years.

Proud father of Jaclyn (Doug) McKay and Andrea Bice.

Cherished Grandad of Elise and Audrey McKay and Jonah, Leona, and Jonathan Bice.

Dear brother of Art (Mary) Link, Peter (Dotty) Link, Richard (Eileen) Link, and Peggy (Jeff) Moon.

Loving brother-in-law of Karen and Wayne Polachowski, Janet and Von Joshua, Rick and Diane Thomas, and the late Russ Thomas.

He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents Eugene and Margaret Link.

Dan was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan and attended Detroit Public schools. In high school he showed leadership skills academically and athletically. He was one of the commencement speakers at his high school graduation and was a recipient of the semi-annual Youth Award. Athletically, he excelled in cross-country where he was captain and an All-State runner. He also made All-City in cross-country and track.

After graduating from high school, Dan attended Michigan State University. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice. He was proud to be a Spartan and loved so much the beautiful campus and the sounds of the marching band playing the MSU fight song.

Dan learned early on in life from his parents to care about social issues that concerned people near and far. It was not surprising that the path he chose professionally would lead him to the Detroit Police Department where he worked for 33 years and retired as a Lieutenant.

After retirement, Dan volunteered with AARP preparing taxes. He enjoyed doing this service and especially enjoyed working alongside and being a part of his team of volunteers.

Dan had an infectious smile and laugh. He gave the best hugs, loved to tell jokes, tease, go on walks, exercise, read to keep up with current events, visit breweries, listen to music, dance, follow the Lions and MSU sports. He had a close bond with his grandkids as well and loved being silly with them.

As a father, Dan shared a special bond with his daughters, Jaclyn and Andrea. He showed them how much he loved their mother and how much he loved them. He had such pride and admiration in the women they had become. They looked to him for guidance and advice which he gave them in a calm and non-judgmental way. He taught them life lessons which they have embraced and carry with them as they guide their children.

Dan gave one final gift: he was an organ donor. His gifts gave hope to the recipients and their loved ones. Even in passing he chose to offer life and healing to others— a true testament of the man that defined him.

Dan will be greatly missed by his family and those who knew him, but he left us with so many wonderful memories to cherish.

GO GREEN!