Daniel (Dan) Thomas McNeil, 72, passed away Dec. 21, 2022, at his residence in Froid, Montana. After working in the frigid cold weather, shoveling and snow blowing to the way for a propane delivery, he returned inside his home to warm up, where he died of an apparent heart attack.
Dan was born September 8, 1950, in Williston, ND. He grew up Froid, MT attending school and graduating high school. He formed lifelong friendships there, especially enjoying the fall and playing football with his teammates/ He entered the Navy upon graduation and then returned to Froid working numerous jobs while assisting on the Family farm with his father. Dan worked roustabout in the oil field with to companies (Pat Picard and B&G Roustabout Service), managed Harvest States Grain Medicine Lake, delivered fertilizer for Agland Co-op, mowed roadways for Roosevelt County, Etc. He made many acquaintances and lifelong friendships through these endeavors.
Upon his father’s retirement he continued his love of farming and ran the family farm until his own retirement. He looked forward all year long to Fall when he could climb on the combine to harvest with Mike and “The Corp”.
Dan enjoyed the company of a special group of friends in Froid. Together they cheered on the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, gathering to watch games, check on each other, and lift a Miller Lite. Your friendship and comradery were all very much loved and appreciated by Dan. Dan enjoyed his farming days with his dad, cherishing those times until his passing. Dan also had a special relationship with his mother. After his father died, he was her guardian angel, checking on her daily, sharing breakfast, taking care of her home and huge yard. Through his care mom was able to retain her independence and live alone until a broken hip led to finishing her life in the nursing home.
Dan had a special place in his heart for his numerous nieces and nephews. He looked forward to news of their many achievements in academics, athletics, work, family, and life.
Dani is survived by brother John (wife, Shirley, children Shawn, Brian, Brent and Lynette), brother Bill (wife Joan, children Ross, Erin and Collin) and sister Karen (daughter Shannon, stepchildren Cameron and Carson). He was preceded in death by his father James (Jim) McNeil, mother Phillis Winter McNeil, and brother-in-law Barry White. Cremation has taken place and interment will be this spring with a small gathering of close family and friends.