Daniel Mark Franz

Daniel Mark Franz aka “ddos dano, WD0GUP, and dad can I borrow the keys” resident of Cottage Grove, passed away September 10th 2026 surrounded by love and family in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Dan was born September 1st, 1959 in Brainerd, Minnesota to Les Franz and Elaine Burns. Devoted husband and father, Ham Radio operator, volunteer and resident funny guy.

Dan is survived by his wife Mary, five children Jacquie Harris, Gabe Franz, Michael Franz, Maddie (Nate) Martin, Jeremiah (Rianne) Franz, and one bonus daughter Lexy Helmes. 3 grandchildren Hope, Celeste and Cloud. His bonus mom, Lucy Franz, his sister Lynn Neilsen-Franz as well as many cousins and friends. He is proceeded in death by his parents, and grandparents.

Dan lived by faith as a member of Saint Rita Catholic Church in Cottage Grove for 37 years. He helped build, design and engineer the sound system and AV. He mentored youth through music, playing bass for 20 years. When not at Saint Rita, he played bass for Saint Joseph in Rosemount.

Dan’s love for technology followed him throughout his life starting in high school when he became a ham radio operator. He was the president of SEMARC (Southeast Metro Amateur Radio Club) and the Secretary of the local chapter of the QCWA (Quarter Century Wireless Association). He led many fox (radio transmitter) hunts and was a VEC (volunteer examiner coordinator) testing future ham radio operators. He was member of the SKYWARN storm spotter program.

Dan had a love for music and had great joy performing bass in his family cover band The Red Ones. Dan was also passionate about making beer and wine as well as going to Flower Valley Vineyards to help pick grapes and bottle wine.

In his spare time, he volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America. Starting as a Den leader, Dan filled many roles though the organization including Cub Master, Unit Commissioner, Assistant Scout Master, Merit Badge Counciler, and Camp cook. In his time with the Boy Scouts, he was merited the Order of the Arrow. He helped many boys over the years achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.

Dan had an enthusiastic love for camping. He and Mary traveled to state parks all over Minnesota with their camper. He shared bottles of wine and bonfires with friends and family. Dan and Mary had the privilege of traveling outside of the country to Barbados, St. Lucia, Jamaica and Canada.

Dan was an active member of SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) and CRA (Central Road Racing Association) in the 70’s and 80’s where he worked communications and corner work.

Visitation will take place from 4:00 to 7:00 PM on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80th Street South, Cottage Grove, Minnesota. A Mass of Chrisitan Burial will begin at 11:00 AM Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the Church of St. Rita, 8694 80th Street South, Cottage Grove, Minnesota with a visitation one hour prior to service.

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