Daniel Joseph McKinney

Daniel Joseph McKinney 62, of New Castle, Colo. passed away March 12, 2013 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction, Colo.

Daniel was born Sept. 10, 1950 in Philadelphia, Penn. to Daniel and Ruth McKinney.

He served with honor in the Army’s 101st Airborne Division in Vietnam. He received three purple hearts and a bronze star. He was a member of Mensa and had a doctorate degree in business from St. Joseph University. His long career in the hospitality industry brought him in contact with dignitaries and celebrities of all areas of the world. From playing golf with Phil Mickelson to teaching President Regan’s staff to do state dinners in the White House, from cigars and brandy with Kenny G to catering Kevin Costner’s wedding, Dan was a man larger than life.

He met and married the love of his life, Ginny, in 2005. They celebrated their love on a daily basis and were an inspiration to others in how to treat your partner. Dan loved God, guns, golf and his beloved mountains of Colorado. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.

Dan is survived by his wife, Ginny McKinney; stepsons Christopher Dickman (Megan) and Joshua Dickman; daughters Shannon McKinney and Sara McKinney Haspel (Joseph); stepdaughters Julie Noffsinger (Jason) and Hannah Saliman; sister Susan McKinney Anderson (Michael); nephew Cody; niece Sophie and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A visitation will be held Friday, March 15, 2013 from 4 to 8 p.m. with the Rosary at 6 p.m. at the Farnum Holt Funeral Home Chapel in Glenwood Springs, Colo. The funeral Mass will be Saturday, March 16, 2013 at 1 p.m. at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in Glenwood Springs, Colo., with burial to follow at Highland Cemetery in New Castle, Colo. Father Cliff McMillan will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Mountain Valley Developmental Services at 700 Mount Sopris Drive, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601.