Daniel William Marschke, 78, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in Loganville, Georgia, surrounded by his immediate family.
He was born on March 1, 1948, in Fairbury, Illinois, and spent much of his childhood between St. Joseph, Michigan, and Boulder Junction, Wisconsin, where his parents operated a hunting and fishing lodge. Those early years helped shape his lifelong passion for the outdoors, including hunting, fishing, and wildlife appreciation. He later met his wife, Barbara, while in college, and the two built a life together after his graduation from Western Michigan University.
Following his education, Daniel served on active duty in the United States Army Reserves before beginning a long career in the petroleum and automotive aftermarket industry. His work with Gulf Oil Corporation brought his family to Georgia, where he continued his professional path and ultimately retired from Permatex.
Retirement gave him more time to focus on family, faith, and the outdoors. He was deeply devoted to his five grandchildren and made it a priority to attend their activities and celebrate their achievements. Affectionately known as “Papa Fish,” he was their proudest supporter and loved sharing stories about them with anyone who would listen. His passion for hunting and fishing took him across North and South America, and he earned recognition as a Grand Master Waterfowl Hunter. He was also a long-time member of the Honey Creek Archery Club at the Monastery in Conyers, Georgia, where he remained active for more than 35 years. His faith was also an important part of his life, and he was a devoted member of his church since its early beginnings.
Daniel is preceded in death by his parents, Guenther C. and Ilene G. Marschke, and his daughter, Michele. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Barbara; his children Lisa (Scott) Rhudy and Todd (Kate) Marschke; and his grandchildren Jonathan, Kaitlyn, Lauren, Davis, and Owen. He is also survived by his brother Bruce (Marcy) Marschke, along with many nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1826 Killian Hill Road, Lilburn, Georgia, on June 5, 2026, at 1:00 PM, with a reception to follow. He will be interred in the church columbarium. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church in his memory.
