Daniel “Danny” Rael, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, with his family by his side. He was born in La Junta Colorado on June 4, 1961, where he grew up and lived most of his adult life. Dan was raised with his brothers and sisters in their La Junta home.
Dan was a loving father to his children. He enjoyed taking them fishing, camping, and teaching them the joys of the outdoors. While he may not have been at every game or event, his heart was always there.
Dan was a man of all trades, and he enjoyed working with his hands, whether that be construction, labor work, or any other hands-on job, with a passion for working on vehicles. While not building something new or fixing things under the hood, his true passion was out at the lake, where he would stay for hours, if not all day, rain or shine. Any chance he had, he was out looking for a new spot to snag a big one.
Dan embraced life and was a “live in the moment” kind of guy. If he had the urge to do something, he was going to do it, and no one was going to stop him. He was also a very strong minded and hard-headed guy. This trait was passed on to his daughters, so you can imagine us girls trying to get our way or, better yet, our point across. He might not have known at the time, but we were always right.
Dan enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren any chance he could, even if only for a few minutes. Whether it was to throw the pole out in the lake, play at the park, or stay home and build a puzzle, it was just the time that he cherished. He had a big heart. He may have shown his love in the not so typical way, but everyone knew his heart was pure.
He is survived by his children, Jerrah, Ophelia, Micah, Anastacia, and Daniel; his brothers. John, Rick, Ed, and his sister. Wanda; his grandchildren and many other loved ones.
He has now been reunited with his mother, Nadine, father, Rosario, stepfather, Teodoro, sister, Phyllis, and many other friends and relatives.
A small family service will be held on Friday, June 7, 2024.
Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.
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