Daniel J. Bernier, age 55, of Valparaiso, IN, passed away on Tuesday, January 25, 2022.

Dan was born on September 7, 1966 in Chicago, IL to the late Joe Bernier and Barbara (nee Pipp) Lindich.  Daniel worked as a carpenter for Smith Family Services and Union Local #1.

He was known by many names: Danny, Dan, Papa, "Dan the Accident Man", Sir Daniel, the protector of Women and Children just to name a few.  Dan enjoyed kayaking and stock car racing.  He liked to bike ride and once rode around the entirety of Lake Michigan.  Dan was a collector of many manly things including tools, axes, and knives and his bike was always hung on the wall.  Described as a daredevil, Dan always loved adventure and danger, if only to prove that it was not dangerous at all.  He built bike ramps for his kids and grandkids.  Dan was a lover of animals and had many pets throughout his life.  He loved to tell his stories and always asked others to share theirs too.  Dan was a loving husband, beloved dad, proud papa, and dear friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Dan is survived by his wife of 6 years: Mary; children: Zach (Shelby) Bernier, Shawna Wixon, Erica (Michael) Spear, Tiffany (Jeremy) Rohrbacher, Milissa (Paul) Hill, Stuart Rohrbacher, Eddie Rohrbacher, Marylou Rohrbacher, and his "youngest" at 73 years old, Rich Burzynski; siblings: Michael Bernier, Bobby Lindich, Matt Bernier, and Jodi (Paul) Mallon; 13 grandchildren with one more on the way; beloved dog: Jake from State Farm (Jake for short); and many dear friends and "adopted" kids and grandkids.

Dan is preceded in death by his parents: Joe Bernier and Barbara Lindich.

Family and friends may gather for a memorial visitation at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel (5341 Central Ave, Portage) on Friday, February 4, 2022 from 4:00-8:00 P.M.

In the spirit of sharing Dan's stories, his family asks that you write or type your favorite "Dan Story" to share with them at the visitation.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Dan's family.