Daniel Raymond Brinker

Daniel Raymond Brinker of White Bear Lake, Minnesota, passed away on October 25, 2026, at the age of 80. He was born on October 20, 1946, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and grew up in White Bear Lake.

Dan grew up in a large, close-knit family. He was affectionately known as his mother’s favorite, something everyone knew and lovingly accepted because they adored him just as much. He was a fun-loving, kind brother whom his siblings looked up to.

In 1967, Dan was drafted into military service and went on to serve four years in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War era. His parents were very proud of his service.

In 1976, Dan married Colleen, the first girl he had ever brought home to meet his parents. His younger sisters gathered around, excited to meet her. Dan and Colleen built a beautiful life together, raising three wonderful children: Danny, Sasha, and Cole. In 2026, they celebrated 50 years of marriage.

Dan worked as a salesman at Royal Sales for 49 years, where he took great pride in his work and cherished the friendships and relationships he built along the way. He especially enjoyed working alongside his bosses, Mark and Matt, his coworkers, and Mark’s dog, Tormund. He also valued the many customers he had the pleasure of getting to know throughout his career. Dan loved working and had a special goal: to make it to his 80th birthday and officially retire at 80. He accomplished both.

Dan had a passion for softball and earned All-World honors in 2000. His accomplishments on the field were further recognized with his induction into the Softball Hall of Fame in 2018. He also enjoyed riding his Harley to Hudson to pick up lottery tickets. Above all, Dan was a loving and devoted family man who cherished spending time with his loved ones.

Dan was preceded in death by his father, Stanley; mother, Donna; infant sister, Shirley; and brother, David.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Colleen; children, Daniel (Ashley), Sasha, and Cole; grandchildren, Tianna and Jack; siblings, Jeanette Wagstrom (Wally), Gerhardt (Debbie), Joan Schadt (Terry), Josephine Baynton (Brett), Donna Lindberg (Charlie), Carol (Bill Smith), and Marilyn; and many nieces and nephews.

A special acknowledgment goes to his loving wife, Colleen, who cared for him daily in the comfort of their home, surrounding him with love.

The family would also like to recognize Dan’s son, Cole, for his dedication throughout the years. From countless medical appointments and surgeries through the final stages of his life, Cole was always there for his father. During hospice, he helped Colleen with Dan’s care each day and devoted his nights to staying by his father’s side, ensuring he was never alone.

Dan’s son, Daniel, and daughter, Sasha, also provided daily love and care for their father while helping their mother.

The family would also like to thank the hospice nurses for their compassion, guidance, and support during Dan’s final days.

Together, their love and care allowed Dan to spend his final days surrounded by the people who loved him most, in the comfort of his own home.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life in spring 2027. Further details will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the family would be greatly appreciated.