Daniel 'Dan' Pilkenton, 73, of Hiawatha, Iowa, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025, at Hiawatha Care Center. There will be no services per Dan's wishes.
Dan was born December 14, 1951, in Davenport, Iowa, but raised in Cedar Rapids. He graduated from Kennedy High School in 1970. He worked at Elmcrest as a grounds maintenance foreman for twenty years and also Collins Aerospace for thirteen years, until his retirement in 2016.
He was a mild-mannered man, with a good sense of humor. He had a love for music and art. He played guitar in local bands in the 1980's. He enjoyed painting, sketching, putting together model cars, and a good crossword. He enjoyed Iowa Hawkeye Football and following Caitlin Clark's basketball career.
He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Lynn; children, Laina, Nate, and Krissy; seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, two sisters, Paula Ketchum and Patti (Mark) Greve; brothers-in-law, Jerry Vaillancourt and Don (Beth) Lucas; sister-in-law, Beth (Glenn) Kieler; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold (Leah) Pilkenton and Betty (Bob) Higgins; and sister, Pam Vaillancourt.
Donations to Kennedy High School Arts Department or your favorite charity.
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services – Cedar Rapids
We are sorry to hear of Dan’s passing. He was a great guy. We always enjoyed visiting with him at various get-togethers over the years. Our heartfelt sympathy. Rick and Marvie Foreman
Sending Hugs To you and Laina❤️🩹
So sorry to hear of the loss of Dan💙
Dave and I were saddened by the news of Dans passing. We remember all the times Dan bailed us out on project we did not have the skills to start or complete. We both enjoyed all the times we spent together. Please share our condolences with Laina.
Fond memories from Dave and Deb Joosten
We are so sorry for your loss Lynn and family. Thoughts and prayers are with you! John and Shari Greenwood
Dan was a very fun man. I hung out with him and my brother in the late 70’s. He was a great guitarist and loved to have a good time. Rest in piece my man. Cathy
Our sympathies to you, Lynn & Laina. I’m keeping you in my thoughts and prayers at this time and hope your memories will bring you both many laughs and tears of joy to carry you through.
Hugs to both,
xoxo❤️🩹 Pat & Pam (Elliott) Marshall
Dan was a wonderful guy to work with.Sympathy to the family.