Dan K. Bastian

Dan Kenton Bastian, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, went to his Heavenly Father on December 28, 2024, at the age of 94. Although he will be greatly missed, we are comforted knowing he will be greeted by his wife, Joan (nee Shrewsberry), along with his parents, his brothers, and many, many others he touched through his long life.

Dan is survived by his children and their spouses: Greg & Camilla Bastian, Lori & Ted Butler, Todd & Lynn Bastian; grandchildren: Alycia Dawn Graczyk (soon Mrs. Jeff Sanders), Brooke Christine Graczyk, Dan & Shawna Bastian, Sarah & Cody Carefoot; and great grandchildren: Silas and Gus Bastian.

Dan was born on September 22, 1930, to George and Letha (nee Ragan) Bastian. He grew up in Hannibal, MO and enjoyed spending time with his two older brothers, Bill and Bud, and school friends in the outdoors. He graduated from Hannibal High School in May, 1948, where he was active in many musical pursuits and met his future wife, Joan Marie Shrewsberry. After high school he attended and graduated from Hannibal La Grange College in May,1950. On September 24 of that same year, he married his high school sweetheart, Joan Shrewsberry. Fun note…his mother had to accompany them to the courthouse to get their license because he wasn’t 21! When Dan was drafted into the U.S Navy, Joan followed him to California where she set up their apartment, worked as a bookkeeper, and looked forward to his time on leave. Dan was honorably discharged from the Navy in October, 1955.

Dan worked many years for Illinois Bell Telephone Company, being transferred with each promotion…Springfield, Ill to Peoria, Ill back to Springfield, Ill, and finally to Danville, Ill. In each town, the entire family were involved United Methodist Church members; and Dan continued to sing in the church choir. In Danville, he was the manager of the IBT Company and became involved in many community organizations. Upon retirement from IBT at the age of 55, he and Joan remained in Danville and enjoyed golfing, traveling, and visiting family in various locations. Dan and Joan belonged to the Elks Club, where they enjoyed many social nights and golf games with friends. Dan studied and obtained his realtor’s license shortly after his first retirement and successfully sold real estate for ten years until the age of 65. Never one for winter weather, Dan and Joan started wintering in Brownsville, TX during those years. On the urging of his broker, Dan obtained his Appraiser’s license, which allowed them to travel more because he could do that part of real estate remotely. In December of 2020, Dan and Joan moved to Bradenton, FL to be near Ted and Lori. Early in their time in Florida, Dan and Ted enjoyed several games of golf together. The island beaches, music, and restaurants became favorites among the four. A special time was had by all of the family when they traveled to Bradenton for the Christmas, 2020. 

In September, 2021, Joan sadly passed away from complications of COVID. While adjusting to the loss, Dan sold their home and moved in with Ted and Lori for a few months. In January, he moved into an Assisted Living apartment, 10 minutes away. There he became immediately known for his ready smile, friendliness, and gift for gab. He enjoyed the music events, poker games, lunches out, and fresh-made cookies throughout the day! Dan never met a stranger! His legacy is his unwavering love for his wife, Joan, his children, their spouses, and their children. All who knew him, loved him. He will be missed by so many.

A funeral service is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on February 7, 2025, at the Shannon Funeral Home, 1015 – 14th Street W, Bradenton, FL 34205. Flowers and condolences may be offered at the above location or at www.legacy.com.