Daniel Edward Green, 76, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, formerly of Gulfport, Florida, beloved brother, veteran, and activist, earned his wings on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at UnityPoint Health in Cedar Rapids, surrounded by his family.
A Celebration of Dan's life will be held at a later date, because a soul like his deserves a sendoff filled with stories, laughter, and a bit of rebellion.
Born on August 2, 1948, in Dubuque, Iowa, the first of twelve children, to Milton 'Moose' and Mary Louise (Johnston) Green. A die-hard Los Angeles Dodgers, Tampa Bay Rays, and Iowa Hawkeyes fan, Dan knew every stat that mattered, cursed the refs and cheered with passion.
He devoured books and never stopped asking questions. His sharp wit and bold voice found a perfect home at the St. Petersburg Times, where he put his gift for storytelling and truth-telling to work. Whether writing or raising hell, Dan believed in the power of words to make change and he wielded them with purpose. Equal parts intellect and heart, he was stubborn, brilliant, fiercely loyal, and entirely unforgettable.
Dan is survived by his siblings, Cindy (Mike) Loveless of Rome, Georgia, Daivd (Pat) Green of Calhoun, Georgia, Mary Ann Green of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Tim (Mary) Green of Vergas, Minnesota, Tony (Angie) Green of Tipton, Iowa, Ted (Gerry) Green of Swanzey, New Hampshire, Sarah (Andy) Linnell of Solon, Iowa, Susie (Chuck) Schneiter of Monticello, Iowa, Luke Green of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Peter Green of Pinellas Park, Florida; brother-in-law, Gregg Merfeld of Monticello, Iowa; legion of nieces and nephews, close friend, Kim Palumbo; and countless other who were impacted by his courage and wit.
He now reunites with those who went before him, his parents, sister, Peggy Merfeld of Monticello, Iowa; nephew, Evan Green of Buckeye, Arizona; and sister-in-law, Chris Green of North Liberty, Iowa.
Dan's family extends heartfelt gratitude to the incredible team at St. Luke's UnityPoint Hospice for their compassion and care, and a special thank you to Dan's friend, Teena.
In lieu of flowers, Dan wouldn't want fanfare, he'd want action. Use your voice. Stand up for our Democracy. Support marginalized communities and people that are different from you. And above all, never stop thinking critically. May his fire burn on in all of us.
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services – Cedar Rapids
You are in my thoughts. Love, Kris