Danny Wayne Warden

Danny Wayne Warden, fondly known as Dan, was born on June 5, 1946, in Irondale Missouri. Dan passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 29, 2024. Dan was a remarkable individual whose life was marked by dedication, love, and an unwavering commitment to the Lord and his family.

Growing up as the ninth of eleven children in the household of Robert Roy and Olive Elizabeth (Winfield) Warden, Dan learned the values of hard work and resilience from an early age. He graduated from Valley High School, where he left a lasting legacy as the first student to compete in an All-State Basketball Tournament. His talents on the court earned him a scholarship to Sul Ross College in Corpus Christi, Texas, where he continued to pursue his love for basketball.

Dan was a man who walked with God. He was saved when he was 24 years of age. Through the years, Dan attended Ellington First Baptist, Lesterville First Baptist and currently Viburnum First Baptist Church, as well as many others along the way. He served as a Sunday School Teacher in various classes. Dan loved reading God's word and his time of daily devotion and most of all praying for his family and all those in need of prayer. Two of his main prayer points were for his families protection and their salvation. 

After high school, Dan served his country honorably in the United States Army from November 16, 1971 to August 15, 1973. His dedication to service reflected the depth of character he carried throughout his life. Dan spent many years working diligently in the mining industry and ultimately retired from Doe Run Company. His work ethic and commitment to his job were admired by many, establishing him as a pillar in his community.

Dan's life was not just confined to work; he was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in hunting and fishing. He cherished every moment spent in nature and often delighted in sharing a meal at KFC with family and friends. His warmth and zest for life were infectious, and his laughter filled the room, bringing joy to those fortunate enough to know him. 

Family was at the center of Dan's world. He is survived by his loving wife, Deshay "Shady" Warden, who stood by his side through thick and thin. Together, they built a beautiful family, which includes four cherished children: Christina (Scot) Baughman of Aloha, OR, Amy (Garry Jr.) Moore of Ellington, MO, Jeremy (Amie) Warden of Spokane, WA, and Shanda (Vaughn "Sprout") Martin of Black, MO.

Dan was a proud "Pop" and "Big Grandpa" to nine grandchildren: Alex (Tuscany) Puig, Garry (Brooklyn) Moore III, Mallory Baughman, Cameron Baughman, Nathan Martin, Wade Baughman, Collyer Maize, Landon Martin, and Talyah Maize. He also kept a special place in his heart for his two great-grandchildren, Viktor and Vincent Puig, whose bright smiles and laughter would warm his heart.

He is also survived by his siblings: Sam (Gail) Warden and Hopie (Junior) Jenkins; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Phyllis Warden, Judy Wadren, Darlene Ruble, Willard (Teresa) McCain, Nancy (Matthew) Woodcock, Phil (Jane) Summers, and John Summers, who remember him fondly as a supportive and caring family member.

In addition to his parents, Dan was preceded in death by his beloved granddaughter, Aspen Balee Maize, along with his siblings: Alfred "Bud" Worden, Olivia "Liz" Huitt, Etta Mae Trip, Pauline Light, Jeanette Kite, Percy "Leroy" Warden, Delbert Warden, and Jerry "Wendy" Warden. Their memories will forever hold a cherished place in the hearts of those who loved them.

Visitation services will be held at DeClue Family Funeral Home in Potosi, Missouri, on Sunday, November 3, 2024, from 5 PM to 8 PM, and again on Monday, November 4, 2024, from 10 AM until the time of his funeral service at 11 AM, held at the DeClue Chapel. Pastor Justin Perry will be officiating. Burial will follow at Liberty Baptist Cemetery in Belgrade, MO. 

Dan Warden’s legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to family and the Lord will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest in peace, dear Dan; you will be deeply missed. Funeral arrangements were respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.