Daniel Edward Wessels

Daniel Edward Wessels, age 71, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Mayo Clinic Hospital Rochester, Saint Marys Campus. He was born on November 12, 1953, in Austin, Minnesota, to Donald and Delores (Alm) Wessels in Austin, Minnesota. Dan attended Austin High School. He enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany working for the postal service until his honorable discharge. In 1976, Dan was united in marriage to Tamera Jensen. The couple was blessed with two children, Jamison and Tyler. They later divorced. Dan married Wendy Simon, and the couple was together many years until her passing in 2024. Dan worked for many years driving over the road semi, and managed R&F Apartments in Austin. Most recently he drove for Kozy Transport Services, helping people get to and from their appointments. Dan loved his dogs and worked very closely with them. He trained them to help him around the house with various tasks such as carrying groceries, grabbing the remote, and bringing him his shoes. Dan was a jack of all trades—always tinkering with something in his backyard, which he proudly turned into his own little paradise. His love of gardening and landscaping was evident, especially with the stunning pond he created, complete with a waterfall and goldfish. In his quieter moments, you could find Dan on his houseboat on the Mississippi River near Wabasha, enjoying the views and bird watching.

Dan is survived by his children, Jamison (Melissa) Wessels and Tyler Wessels; step-children, Shannon (Rich) Clark, Dana (Brian) Peterson, and Steve Simon; grandchildren, Kourtnee (Drake) Brehmer, Laura (Dave) Lowy, Emily (Gabe) Clark, Becky (Sam) Clark, Zach Peterson, Lacy Peterson, Jordan Simon, and Peyton Simon; many great-grandchildren; parents, Donald and Delores Wessels; father-in-law, Richard Reed; siblings, Kathy (Gary) Ramseth, Chris (Scott) Bultman, Jeff Wessels, Mindy (Randy) Jorgenson, Julie (Rick) Fouge, Steve (Darla) Wessels, and Mary LeMay; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews; and beloved dog and best friend, Tucker. He was preceded in death by his wife, Wendy.

A celebration of life for Dan will be held at a later date. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes are assisting the family with arrangements.