Dan E. Barden Sr

Gladwin, Michigan 

It is with deep sorrow that I share this news: 

Dan Edward Barden Sr, 76 passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, April 27, 2025 in Gladwin, Michigan. Dan was born on April 20, 1949, in Flint, Michigan, to William and Dorothy (Muter) Barden.

Dan lived a full and vibrant life. His early years in North Lake, Michigan include his education at Lakeville Schools and later, Millington High School (Class of 1967) where he was actively involved in football, band, the debate team, and served as student council president his senior year. His career path was diverse, successful and impressive. Following his father's footsteps in the heating, air conditioning, and plumbing he took over the family business. Dan became a master plumber and also worked as a pipe fitter for GM. His community involvement was equally significant; he volunteered as a Forest Township Firefighter (2nd Gen), assisted with ambulance runs, served on the Forest Township board and was a proud member of the Jaycees.

 He was a successful business owner of a hardware store in Vassar and D.E. Barden CO. in Davison. He went on to teach HVAC at Pickens Technical College in Colorado, where he was recognized as Instructor of the year in 2006. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dan possessed a remarkable array of talents. A well-traveled and educated man, he was a published author (two books), a poet, a skilled woodworker, and most recently, a budding musician, collaborating with AI to compose music based on his lyrics. He was poised to meet with a Nashville producer in the coming weeks, showcasing the span of his creative abilities as a song writer. 

On May 26, 2018 Dan met the love of his life, Cathy, whom he married on March 30, 2019. Their time together, though relatively short, was filled with cherished memories. His wife is immensely proud of his many achievements. Dan always said “God saved the best for last!” 

Dan was predeceased by his son Billy Barden (1979), his parents William and Dorothy Barden, his sister Judy Satkowiak, his brother James Barden, and a bonus great-grandchild, James Byrd. He is survived by his wife, Cathy; Son Dan (Jennifer) Barden of Otisville; bonus daughter Christy (Ray)Hunt of Tennessee; Grandchildren Kyle (Sommer) Barden, Samantha Barden, Alyssa (Dylan) Upthegrove, bonus-Grandchildren; Amanda Byrd, Camri Garza, Great-Grandchildren; Jaxon, Hazel, Ryker, Levi, bonus-Great Grandchildren; Jaylin, Chloe, Landon, Roman, Nathan, and Farah, Brother; Tom (Cindy) Barden of Burton, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, Facebook friends and close friends; Bob and Joyce Wager, Dave and Kathy Tatrow, and Jim and Bonnie Fyvie.

Cremation has taken place per his wishes. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm at Millington Community Center 8705 State Rd Millington, Michigan.