Daniel E. Tompkins, 70, of Nelson Twp, OH, passed away peacefully Monday afternoon, February 5th, 2024 at his home while surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio on December 29th, 1953 to the late Edward and Barbara (Palevich) Tompkins. Dan later married his best friend and the love of his life, Judy Cooke on May 1st, 1976.
He enjoyed rabbit hunting, fishing, and spent many fond years camping at Windrush Hollow with family and friends. Dan loved riding his motorcycle and was an active member for over 10 years of Rolling Thunder Advocacy Group which remembered and supported Veterans and their families.
He was also an excellent horseshoe player and came in 4th place in his class at an Ohio State Championship game.
Dan was a loving husband, having met the love of his life, Judy, early in life and marrying in 1976. They shared over 47 wonderful years of marriage and enjoyed traveling together to places like Virginia Beach, Gettysburg, and Gatlinsburg. Later in life they even loved going on many casino trips together.
He was fondly known as Peepop to his grandchildren and was also the best dad and grandpa. Whether he was playing on the floor with them, teaching them to fish, changing tires, or pranking them, Dan was always there.
Dan always enjoyed attending at his children and grandchildren’s events such as sports games, band, choir, orchestra concerts, plays, and holiday shows. He was always in the crowd cheering.
He fought a long hard illness and despite that and many trips in and out of hospitals, Dan never lost his sense of humor and never failed to make new friends with his nurses.
Dan always had a great ability to make others around him laugh. His humor and love will be greatly missed.
He is survived by: his loving wife of 47 ½ years, Judy; daughters, Ivy (Carl) Tompkins, Holly (Brandon) McNeely, Heidi (Jeff) Bly; grandchildren, Arianna, Khiana, Nevaeh, Brett; aunts, Barbara Sandford and Diane Plezia; sister, Renee Bateman; nephews, David and Shawn; nieces, Angela, Chrissy, and Ceirra; and many friends.
Dan is preceded in death by: his parents, and brothers, Mikey and David Tompkins.
A celebration of life was held on February 8th at Best Funeral Home with Pastor Bill Wisnieski officiating. The family would like to thank the staff of the Hospice of the Western Reserve for their great care. Arrangements have been entrusted to Best Funeral Home, Middlefield, OH. 440-632-0818. Online condolences may be sent at bestfunerals.com.
