Daniel Joseph Hughes

ESCANABA — Daniel Joseph Hughes, 72, of Escanaba, passed away on December 11, 2024 of a massive heart attack.

A devout Catholic, master craftsman and the ultimate patriot, Daniel lived his life for the Lord, his wife, and family.

Born on March 16, 1952 to James and Margaret Hughes in Escanaba, Mich. He graduated from Escanaba Senior High School in 1970. On December 15, 1973 he married Lorraine (Lala) Srock who he affectionally referred to as his “lovely bride” at St. Anne’s Parish. The two would go on to welcome four children and happily celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2023.

Daniel worked for the Chicago Northwestern Railroad for 17 years before making a major career shift to become the Computer Systems Manager at the Delta Schoolcraft Intermediate School District. He retired in 2012 following a 20-year tenure where co-workers and students called him, “Dan Dan the Computer Man”.

Daniel spent countless hours through the years crafting his and Lala’s happy place fondly referred to as the “Swamp Shack.” His attention to detail was impeccable and although his perfectionism could lead to his frustration, the result was always admired by those closest to him. Dan and Lala spent hours snowshoeing the property and surrounding areas. They also hosted many friends and family around the campfire at the Swamp Shack.

He served as a member of St. Anne’s Catholic Church, Delta County S.O.R.V.A. and the Knights of Columbus – Council 640. Daniel always jumped in feet first and gave it his all. He was a 4th Degree Knight and provided numerous hours and solutions to the organizations he was a member of. Daniel and his wife Lala served as ushers at St. Anne’s and participated in weekly adoration at the Hospital Chapel, formerly taught CCD, and participated Pre Cana classes.

Daniel is survived by his wife, Lala; and their children, Daniel (Cambria) Hughes, Nicholas (Naya) Hughes, David Hughes, Sheila (John) Krueger along with grandchildren, Anika (Brendan) Sliva, Kinsey, Danni, Lilia, Nina and Theo Hughes, Parker and Cecila Krueger and Aaron Anzalone. He also became a great-grandpa to Olivia and Reuben Sliva.

He is further survived by his siblings, James (Kathy), Thomas, Bill, Paul, Greg, Suzi Hughes and Mary (Rick) Larson as well as in-laws, Mary Lequia, Cathy (Don) Carlson, Linda Benike and Rosemary (Gregg) Hendrickson; step-mother Betty Arnold; along with many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Daniel was preceded in death by his parents, and mother and father-in-law, Stanley and Lorraine Srock; brothers-in-law Terry Benike, Thomas Lequia and Willard Clark as well as Evan Krueger.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, December 17 from 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the Crawford Funeral Home, 302 S. 13th St., Escanaba. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 4 p.m. at St. Anne’s Church. At the conclusion of the mass a meal will be served in the church hall.

Burial will be in Escanaba Twp. Cemetery in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Holy Name Catholic School or Escanaba Knights of Columbus.

A message of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.