Obituary: Daniel Patrick Blesener

Daniel Patrick Blesener of Carlton died peacefully Sunday Aug. 27, 2023, at Essentia Health-St. Mary's Medical Center in Duluth surrounded by his friend and brother-in-law, Dapper Danielson, along with his nephew Dan and his nephew's wife, Katie Danielson.

Dan was born on April 19, 1949, in Cloquet, to Harold and Edith Blesener.

Dan graduated in 1967 from Cloquet High School, where he was involved in vocational training in drafting at the Northwest Paper Company. Dan attended the University of Minnesota Duluth prior to an enlistment in the United States Navy. Dan served four years aboard an aircraft carrier and was honorably discharged.

He worked in electrical sales for many years, retiring from Great Lakes Electrical Equipment Company.

Dan had many interests, but his favorite passions were hunting, fishing (especially fly fishing) and playing golf. He was a member of the Cloquet Country Club for many years and a member at the Black Bear Golf Course right up to his death.

Dan also had a passion for music, with an extensive record album collection of more than 3,000 records, alphabetized and inventoried in his computer. He loved to talk about music and loved listening to live music as well.

Dan also had a very special and close relationship with his nephew Dan. He loved hearing of his accomplishments but especially loved to hear about what his children were up to. He enjoyed hearing of their activities and about all of their shenanigans. Nothing made him laugh more.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Robert Blesener.

Dan is survived by brothers, Nickolas "Nick" (Mary) Blesener of Cloquet, Richard "Dick" (Barb) Blesener of Hibbing; sister, Virginia "Gina" (Dapper) Danielson of Cloquet. Special nephew, Dan (Katie) Danielson; niece Michelle Blesener (Andrea); nephew Erik (Sherri) Blesener; niece Shannon Blesener; along with numerous great nieces and nephews.

Dan was also lucky to have very close friends in his life. He was very sad when his friend Jeff Oinen passed away. He talked about Jeff regularly and the friendship and care that Jeff's brother, Wes, showed Dan when he was sick will not be forgotten.

Dan also enjoyed many good times, meals and laughs with the Perfetti family, and especially Andrew, Becky and young Carmine Perfetti.

The family would also like to thank Dale Wolf. Your care, compassion and friendship to Dan has meant so much not only to Dan, but to us. Thank you for always being there for your friend.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date for close family and friends.

Pine Knot News, Sept. 1, 2023