Daniel Chagdes

Daniel Chagdes, age 65, of Antioch, Illinois, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his son, daughter-in-law, and a close family friend, on January 18, 2026. He was born in Waukegan, Illinois, on January 18, 1961, to the late James and Georgia Chagdes.

Dan grew up in Mundelein, Illinois, before settling down in Antioch. He loved his parents deeply and was an active presence in their lives until their passing. After their passing, Dan retired and moved to Appleton, Wisconsin, to be closer to his son, Stephen, daughter-in-law, Jennifer, and grandson, Alexander. Dan lived a modest lifestyle and, in his final years, enjoyed a quiet retirement near his family. His energy was focused on loving his grandson and spoiling him with Hot Wheels and candy. Dan departed before he had the chance to meet his granddaughter, who is due in May.

In Dan’s younger years, he had many talents. He was an exceptional bowler, a casual golfer, and a gifted handyman. He spent years working at Baxter, Johnson Controls, and independently, specializing in various maintenance and construction-related trades. He was proud of his work and loved to show it off.

Dan was also an avid sports fan. He spent his life rooting for Chicago teams, including his beloved Chicago Bears. He had an astute knowledge of sports trivia and statistics and loved watching Jeopardy!, where he enjoyed showcasing his strong trivia acumen. It was a tradition for Dan to watch Jeopardy! with his father and son—something all three generations cherished.

In his final years, Dan faced health challenges but always maintained a positive spirit. The family would like to thank the kindness and hospitality of the staff, nurses, physicians, and specialists of Mosaic Family Health of Appleton, Wisconsin; ThedaCare Regional Medical Center of Appleton, Wisconsin; and Froedtert Hospital of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. A very special thanks to Dr. Sam Hayes, Dan’s primary care physician. Dr. Hayes was an advocate for Dan and helped him navigate difficulties as a trusted health professional.

The family would also like to thank the families of Jason and Jenn Stingl; Cynthia Peeters; Rob and Cathy Meinshausen; and the surviving family and friends who supported Dan through the good times and the bad times. In his final hours, Dad asked his Lord for forgiveness for his sins and departed this Earth at peace. May he rest in eternal peace.

At this time, there are no planned services. The family welcomes all prayers and warm memories of Dan to be shared in his honor.

Dad—we always said it was a good run. You had fun, and I’m glad I was there with you until the end. I saw how you loved your parents, and you passed that down to me. When you were in control, you could do anything you wanted. I loved watching you work, and we built some beautiful things together on the various odd jobs we did side by side. As a boy and a young man, you always supported me, praised me, and told me how much you loved me.

When it came to Jenna and Alex, you loved them more than anyone who came before. I always admired how you valued the things most important in my life. You could light up a room and be the life of the party. I look forward to the day we can get into a little trouble again.  –“Bones”