Daniel J. Kautz

Daniel J. Kautz, of Pacific, Mo, formerly of Hanover, Il, passed away Friday, May 6, 2022. A celebration of DJ’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

DJ was born February 14, 1970, son of Donald and Kathryn (Neumeister) Kautz. He grew up in rural Hanover, attending Hanover schools. DJ graduated from Hanover High School with the class of 1988. After high school DJ attended Bradley University, and graduated with the class of 1992. In 2004 DJ met the love of his life, Michele Szekely. The couple hit it off, and spent their lives together until DJ's passing.

DJ was a man with many interests and passions. He was into extreme sports, be it hang gliding in Tennessee, snowboarding in Colorado, or skiing at Chestnut Mountain and Jackson Hole. He was also a skilled practitioner of Kindo, attaining the rank of black belt. DJ also enjoyed a good craft beer and cigar. He was a big fan of IPAs, and even made his own beer, “Shitty Shack Brews”. When DJ wasn’t bombing a double black diamond, or enjoying a hoppy beer, he like golfing, fantasy football, following the stock market, watching the Indy 500, or cheering on The Denver Broncos.

DJ always had a huge heart, and wanted to help those he could. He was a lifelong member of the Lutheran Church, and gave his time to Stephen Ministries, mentoring those in need. He was also a member of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and gave his time volunteering for the organization. DJ never met a stranger, and could have a conversation with anyone. He always had many close friends, and never forgot a name.

At the center of DJ’s life was his family. His greatest pride was his children, and he loved to share his passions and life experience with those he loved most. He loved trips with his children to the zoo, and always looked forward to “Mancations” with his sons. Around the house, DJ was “Mr. Fix It” or at least he tried to be. DJ’s family will hold on to the many memories made with DJ forever.

DJ will be dearly missed by his loving wife, Micki Szekely of Pacific, Mo; four children, Taylor Szekely, Hunter Szekely, Jackson Kautz, and Kaelyn Kautz, all of Pacific; both of his parents, Don and Kathy Kautz of Hanover, Il; and three siblings, Bryan (Wendy) Kautz of Alabaster, Al, Paula (David) Misek of Morris, Il, and Chad (Amanda) Kautz of Lena, Il.

DJ is preceded in death by his grandparents, Peter and Lois Kautz, and Alvin and Virginia Neumeister; and his uncle, Roy (Sue) Kautz.