Daniel Thomas Hartley

Daniel Thomas Hartley passed away peacefully on May 14th, 2025, at IU Bloomington Hospice House after a heroic battle with cancer.

Dan was loved or envied by all who met him. He was authentic, free-spirited, fiercely intelligent, hilarious, and naturally good at everything.

Daniel's accomplishments include:

-Eagle Scout

-Farmer

-Master forager and gardener

-World traveler

-Stronger than Wolverine

-Adventurer

-Outdoorsman

-Chess player

-Athlete--Dan was a soccer player, snowboarder, skateboarder, yogi, golfer, he excelled in every sport

-Musician--Dan could play every instrument

-Incredible writer and songwriter

-Chef

-Funniest person ever

-College graduate, but who cares

We hope you choose to honor Dan's memory by embodying his best qualities.

Dan was authentic and tenacious. Never one to conform, he built his life on his own terms. While cancer took him way too soon, he lived more fully in his 39 years than most do in a lifetime.

Dan was mindful, always aware of his surroundings, and considerate to a fault. He went out of his way to make people feel included and important. He would (and did, on more than one occasion) give you the shirt off his back. He encouraged everyone to rise to their full potential.

Dan loved animals and the great outdoors. He could hike ten miles without breaking a sweat, climb any tree, and spot a morel from a mile away. His respect for nature was reflected in his fishing habits--he would remove the barbs from the hooks to make catch and release a little easier on the fish.

Like a wolf, Dan was loyal to his friends and family. He would do anything for the people he loved, whether it was helping his Grandma put up Christmas decorations or tackling his nieces and nephews in a new game. He was a wonderful Uncle and wanted to spend his limited energy playing with his nieces and nephews up until the end.

Danny's smile was contagious, and his ability to laugh at everything--even when it wasn't entirely appropriate, and despite all the BS--was one of his finest qualities.

Daniel's Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, May 25th, 6:30 PM at Butler Winery. Feel free to bring songs and stories to share in Dan's memory.