Daniel Ray VanReenen

Daniel Ray VanReenen, Sr. passed away in Bel Air, MD on Sunday, March 6th at the age of 73, proving that he was not, in fact, too mean to die. A long-time resident of Aberdeen, Van was born in Marlinton, WV to the late Walter D. VanReenen and Hazel Jane Baker (nee Hensil). Van joined the military after high school, promoting to the Army Rangers when a superior pointed at him and two other infantrymen and said, “Get in the truck.” He served in Vietnam as a Ranger and, later, as a Green Beret, where he distinguished himself by jumping out of over 120 perfectly good airplanes. He did not, unfortunately, win Special Operations Bingo, as he left the Army after his tour to pursue a career as a machinist. Van joined the federal workforce at Aberdeen Proving Ground where he worked in [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] doing [REDACTED] and building [REDACTED]. His colleagues in [REDACTED] will be desolate without him and have probably already messed up his tools. Van enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling, home improvement projects, and spoiling his loved ones. He was a supportive father, doting husband, silly grandfather, friend of Bill Wilson, and fierce protector of his family, friends, and colleagues. He was a consummate storyteller, sharing adventures and stories of his family with those lucky enough to hear them. Neither his family nor his lawn will be the same without him. Van is survived by his wife, Marie F. (Koermer) VanReenen, brother Tim Stone, sons Bodo Hranj, Daniel VanReenen, Jr., Bart Feehley, and Chris Horn; his daughters Christine VanReenen, Tina Sinyard, Kathy Barger, and his favorite child, Rebecca Hranj. He also leaves behind 17 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Van was predeceased by his brother Larry, sister Linda, stepfathers Frank and Barry, and wife Inge. Van’s life will be celebrated at the Tarring-Cargo Funeral Home on Saturday, March 12th at 2:00pm, followed by visitation until 4:30pm. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to any organization you think Van would have appreciated.