Daniel O. Barthel

Daniel O. Barthel, 78, of Rancho Cordova, CA, unexpectedly passed away on July 23, 2023. He was born on April 14, 1945, in St. Michael, Minnesota, to Norbert and Martha Barthel. Daniel was a naturally authentic man, well rounded and solidly grounded. He was kind, loving, and giving. He had an inviting smile and a unique humor. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Daniel is survived by his beloved wife, Vicky, and their children: Crisa Toms (Michael), Tanya Barthel Visger (Robert), and Bryan Barthel (Laura). He was also a proud grandfather to Alexandra Lischer (Travis), Trey Visger, Brandon Barthel, and Dylan Barthel.  Also survived by his brothers David Barthel and Dean Barthel (Cathy) and sisters Joanne Hartmann and Jane Stepanek (William) and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Daniel had an accomplished military career spanning 38 years (1967 – 2005). He served his country in the U.S. Air Force as a KC-135 navigator and as an Air Reserve Technician. He obtained the rank of Lt. Col. During and after his military service, he was an economics professor at Golden Gate University and Los Rios Community College District.

Daniel attended St. Mary’s High School in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, and then earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota, Duluth. He went on to obtain a master’s degree in economics from Golden Gate University.

Dan was always active. He rarely stopped from sunrise to sunset. In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, playing racquetball, walking the bike trail, swimming, and reading. He was an active member of Sons in Retirement, Knights of Columbus, the Loyal Order of Moose and the SJV Mr. and Mrs. Club. He enjoyed playing Bunco with friends, spending time with family playing cornhole and Farkle, and puttering around the backyard. To the delight of his family, he enjoyed cooking and grilling. He cheered on the Minnesota Vikings, Minnesota Wild, and the Sacramento Kings.

Dan married Vicky Hugdahl, his college sweetheart, the day after their college graduation, June 10, 1967.  They raised three loving children, Crisa, Tanya and Bryan. Their early life focused around the family.  They enjoyed van camping when the kids were young, Easters at Disneyland, summer road trips to Minnesota and spending countless hours at the kids’ school and sporting events. In their empty nest days, Dan and Vicky enjoyed spending time with friends, enjoying quiet time at home, and traveling to new destinations. They shared 56 years of love, laughter, and friendship. Dan dedicated himself to his family and was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Daniel Barthel will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country, and his passion for life. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.