Daniel Joseph Stretmater

Daniel J. Stretmater

Dan passed peacefully on February 21, 2026, surrounded by family, as The Lord’s Prayer was spoken at his bedside. It was a fitting close to a life marked by devotion and quiet service.

Born in Washington, D.C., Dan attended Catholic University, where he met Helen McCandless, the love of his life. They married in 1950 and raised eleven children. After Helen’s death in 1972, when their youngest was six, Dan guided the family with steady love, leading more by humble example than words.

A World War II veteran, he studied physics on the GI Bill and later worked as a designer and program manager in Naval Surface weaponry, applying his keen analytical mind to complex defense systems.

In 1960 the family settled in Clarksville, Maryland, where Dan served as a Catholic deacon for over three decades. He prepared couples for marriage, baptized children, preached, and accompanied families through life’s joys and sorrows.

In 2011 he moved to Red Rocks Ranch in Monument, Colorado. Neighbors often saw him riding his recumbent bike well into his 100th year. After a fall last August, he began his final chapter.

A lifelong reader and deep thinker, Dan admired Ralph Waldo Emerson and valued the pursuit of truth. He listened more than he spoke; when he did speak, his words were measured and thoughtful. He believed that trust in the Lord must be lived daily.

Preceded in death by children; Pete, Kate, and Marna.

Dan is survived by Cass, Steve, Mike, Andie, Jody, Toni, Lori, Jeanne, and a large circle of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His legacy is one of enduring love, service, and compassion. He and Helen are surely dancing once more.

A visitation will be held at Donaldson Funeral Home of Clarksville, P.A., 12540 Clarksville Pike, Clarksville, MD 21029 on Friday, March 13, 2026 from 11:00am to 1:00pm with a graveside service immediately to follow at St. Louis Cemetery, 5950 Ten Oaks Rd, Clarksville, MD 21029.

 Reception to follow graveside at Bushel and a Peck Kitchen & Bar, 12250 Clarksville Pike Ste H, Clarksville, MD 21029.