Daniel J. Wittrock Sr.

Daniel J. Wittrock, age 76, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota passed away on June 16, 2026 at the Avera Heart Hospital. 

Born on August 20, 1949, in Sioux Falls, SD. Daniel was the son of Elmer and Berneice Hansen and Floyd Wittrock. At age 18, he started his career as a mechanic at Oakleaf Salvage Yard (now known as Oakleaf Auto) in Hartford, SD and worked there for 47 years until retirement. Working on vehicles or projects around the house were a few of his many passions and anyone who knew him knew he could fix just about anything.

Beyond his career and love for cars, Daniel was an avid hunter and fisherman and genuinely loved being outdoors. Throughout his life, he enjoyed riding motorcycles, dancing, and was always down for a card game. He won several tournaments for both bowling and pool. Dan was known for running a pool table with one hand, smiling, and making it look easy. 

His life was full of love, laughter, and countless wonderful memories. Dan was well known for his sense of humor and ability to make anyone laugh. He was the kind of person people could always count on. Whenever someone needed help, he would be there without hesitation and would always show up when it mattered most. Daniel and Carolyn’s home was the gathering place for their community of family and friends and was always open to all. His morning started with a game of Hand and Foot with Carolyn and he spent each day being the life of the party wherever he was. Daniel had a way of leaving a lasting impression on anyone who met him. 

Daniel is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Carolyn Wittrock. They recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary on June 12th. He is also survived by their three children: Daniel Jay Wittrock Jr. and his wife, Carey Wittrock; Trina Wittrock Weiher and her husband, Rick Weiher; and Stacy Wittrock Earhart. He was the proud grandfather of 15 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren and was an uncle to many beloved nieces and nephews. Daniel was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Berniece Hansen, his father Floyd Wittrock, and his 6 brothers and 4 sisters. He was the last surviving of 11 children. 

Please join us for Daniel’s celebration of life on Sunday, June 21,2026, from 1:00- 3:00 pm at Heritage Funeral Home in Sioux Falls, SD. We welcome family and friends to remember the life of a truly incredible and well-loved father, uncle, grandfather, and friend.