It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Daniel C. Macklin Jr., who passed away at the age of 80.
Born on June 29, 1945, Dan spent his life cultivating joy through his passion for cars and his dedication to selling Chevrolets. He began his sales career in 1970 at Hutchens Chevrolet, which soon became his second family. After their retirement in 2017, he continued his career with Priority Chevrolet and, more recently, Southern Chevrolet. Dan was an award-winning salesman, building a loyal, multi-generational following and a devoted customer base for over 55 years. If you knew Dan, you knew his amazing sense of humor and quick wit! Dan was the kind of person who could light up a room just by opening his mouth. There’s something truly special about the way he could find the perfect line at the perfect moment. His ability to bring laughter to those around him is a gift that will forever stay with us.
He once believed he had found love in his 1966 Corvette—until he met Kathy, the true love of his life. Dan and Kathy were married on his birthday in 1974 and shared a marriage of 51 years that was the epitome of a true love story.
Diagnosed in May 2025, Dan fought a courageous battle with Mesothelioma lung cancer until gaining his freedom from pain and suffering on April 24th. His family deeply appreciates the love and care he received from Riverside Cancer Center, Palliative Care, and Hospice, as well as the devoted support of his cousin, Michele Macklin, RN, who was on call whenever needed. Immuno-therapy gave the family the invaluable gift of more time with someone so deeply loved and difficult to let go.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel C. Macklin Sr. and Doris Macklin.
He will continue to be cherished by his loving wife, Kathy; his sister, Debbie Wright (Jackie); his children, Gina Meares, Carrie Guerrero (David), and Danny Macklin III (Kim); his seven grandchildren, Meghan, Damien, Taylor, Madison, Brayden, Ryan, and Owen; and his five great-grandchildren, Braxton, Kade, Raelynn, Giovanni, and Azaria.
He is also remembered by his former sons-in-law, David Meares and Brian Sehmann, who remain cherished members of the family, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins who held a special place in his heart.
A visitation will be held at Peninsula Funeral Home on Thursday, April 30, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. A Catholic funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church on Friday, May 1, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a celebration of his life at the “Nest” located in the Kiln Creek Golf Club and Resort, Newport News, VA, from 12:30 to 3:00 pm.
20 Comments
Kathy, we are so very saddened by the passing of Dan. We know that you and your entire family are just absolutely heartbroken. May God be with each of you during this most difficult time.
Our love and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Dan was a great man. He will be missed.
Kathy-I’m so very sorry. My heart hurts for you and your family. Hugs to you all.
Beautiful, Thank you for the beautiful tribute to your dad. Even with the difference in our ages, as cousins we had many fun times together. Danny was handsome, loving, devoted to Kathy and his family. He will be missed and remembered with love. 🙏❤️🌈🦋
Oh Kathy. I’m so sorry for your loss, your love. Dan was a great person. If you need anything, please reach out to us. Love you! Sherry, Ted and the boys
Oh Kathy, the day before your birthday. I’m so very sorry to hear of Dan’s illness and passing. You and your family are in my prayers.
Fondly,
Angela Nassar
Dear Kathy and family, I worked with Dan at Hutchens and Priority he was always a joy to be around. He sold me and my family members many vehicle. You knew he loved his family, by the way he spoke of you all especially Kathy. He will be missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace and I will pray for peace and comfort for his family and friends. Love to you all in this time if sorrow
What a man and what an example of love and commitment he had to his family. He had a great sense of humor you could always count on Dan to make you smile
Kathy and Family: I am so sorry for your lost. God continues to provide his loving arms of protection around you. Blessings and love.
Very sorry for your loss. It is hard to say good bye to your love one
Dear Kathy: My heart aches for you. I am so sad to hear of Dan’s passing. He was a one of a kind human being with a one of a kind partner. You two hold the bar high for what a good marriage is supposed to be. I’ll always remember him coming into the rally room after work with a big smile on his face and you were oh so happy to see him. I hope your fun times and good memories carry you through this unbearable time.
I know I can’t make your pain go away, but I want you to know I’m here for you with a shoulder to cry on or an ear to listen with, or anything else you may need.
May God bless all of his beautiful family and give them peace!
Kathy
We are so sorry to hear of Dan”s passing. Keep your memories close. You and your family are in our prayers for comfort during this difficult time.
Kathy, words cannot begin to express how sorry I am for your loss. Dan was so many great things all rolled into one. He was the best salesman and gave me the best deal of my life when he handed me your business card. I will never forget the sparkle in his eyes when he spoke of you. He will surely be missed.
Kathy and family,
Please know we are heartbroken at Dan’s passing. He was an easy going guy who shared his humor and witt with everyone. He cherished you and his family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Live with the memories of laughter, love and joy of Dan. He is in the hearts of many. God will bless and carry
you and your family during this tough time. Love you dear friend!
Kathy, We are so sorry for your loss. You and Dan had so many wonderful memories.You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers . Frank , Celestine and Monica Batts
Dan Macklin and I work together for 13 years
I
I work with Dan Macklin for 13 years.. I could confide in Dan about anything. I know he was a rock to the Macklin’s and at times he was a rock for me.. at times she was so funny when you least expect it
he was the king of one liners and would constantly crack all of us up at work.. my thoughts and prayers go out to Kathy and the family.. all I know is H eaven has gain a special Soul…spread your wings Dan love you brother R.I.P 🙏
I met Dan while looking at cars at Priority Chevrolet. What a wonderful, easy gong person. He spoke of his family with so much love. Praying you have peace that passes all understanding.
My dear Danny, I’m so sorry to hear of your passing. Except for a year or two when your family moved to Kentucky or West Virginia (can’t remember), we were class mates at St, Vincent’s and best friends…working together also at the First and Merchants Bank, and bowling on the same team, and actually dating some. You always made me laugh. Your quick wit was infectious. My condolences to your family. You will be missed by all who knew you.