Daniel "Dan" Haushild, 70, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, at Ava's Hospice House in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, after a courageous two-year battle with brain cancer. Surrounded by the love of his family, Dan left this world with the same quiet strength and dignity that defined his life.

The family will be present beginning at 10:00 am with a Celebration of Dan's Life starting at 11:00 am on Monday, July 6, 2026, at the Miller Southside Chapel, 7400 South Minnesota Avenue.

Dan was born on April 28, 1956, in Platte, South Dakota, to Jake and Evelyn Haushild. He graduated from Platte High School in 1974 and, in December 1973, proudly enlisted in the South Dakota Army National Guard. He faithfully served his country for 20 years with the 200th Engineer Company, Detachment 1, retiring in April 1994. His commitment to service reflected the loyalty and dedication he carried throughout every aspect of his life.

Dan dedicated much of his working life to welding, a trade he took great pride in. Over a career spanning 35 years, he worked for Dakota Manufacturing and Meyerink's Farm Service in Platte SD before joining Arc Fabricators in Sioux Falls. In 2007, he embraced a new challenge and changed careers, becoming a salesman for North Central Foods. He enjoyed building relationships with customers and coworkers and remained with the company until his retirement in 2020.

In June of 1981, Dan met a sassy blonde named Ronda. They shared a beer, and it was love at first sight. They were married on October 4, 1986, and built a life centered on love, laughter, and family. Dan often joked that "Ronda talked enough for both of us," but those who knew him understood that when Dan spoke, it was worth listening to. He was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes. His quiet wisdom, steady presence, and unwavering love will be deeply missed.

Dan's greatest happiness came from spending time outdoors with his family and friends. He loved fishing and spent countless hours on the Missouri River near Platte with family and friends, creating memories that will be treasured forever. He and Ronda enjoyed 14 wonderful summers at their permanent campsite in Platte, where fishing, campfires, and time together became family traditions. One of Dan's greatest regrets was that his illness prevented him from teaching his grandchildren the joy of fishing, a pastime that brought him so much joy.

An avid sportsman, Dan also enjoyed hunting pheasants, deer, and turkey. Dan also enjoyed golfing. Following retirement he spent summers playing golf in the Great Plains South Dakota Senior Golf Tour with his good friend Tim. In his younger years, Dan was an accomplished baseball and softball player. Among his favorite accomplishments was pitching a no-hitter in a slow-pitch softball game—a story he always enjoyed telling.

Above all else, Dan loved his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 40 years, Ronda Haushild; daughter Heather Knutson and her husband, Dan; son Austin Haushild and his wife, Kiley; and son Levi Haushild and his girlfriend Kenzie. He was a proud grandfather to Callen and Cora Knutson and eagerly awaited the arrival of another granddaughter, due in August. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he was a wonderful Papa to them. He is also survived by his sister, Julie Dashay; brothers- and sisters-in-law Dennis Meyerink, Rick and Jody Sternberg, all of Platte; Judy and Stephan Chesley of Luverne, Minnesota; Kerri and Eric Meyer of Parker; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who became family.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Jake and Evelyn Haushild; his parents-in-law, Ron and Peggy Sternberg; his brother, Tim Haushild; and his sister, Dena Meyerink.

Dan's legacy is one of quiet strength, steadfast love, and unwavering devotion to those he cared about. He didn't seek the spotlight, but he made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be remembered for his gentle smile, his dry sense of humor, his love for the outdoors, and the example he set through a life well lived.

He will be deeply loved, forever missed, and always remembered.

Memorials in Dan's name may be made to Ava's House or the Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls.