Daniel D. Buddenhagen of Hortonville, a retired electrician with IBEW Local #363 and a lifelong resident of the area, passed away on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at the Garnet Health Hospital - Grover Hermann Division in Callicoon, NY. He was 80 years old.

The wake and funeral service were held at the Hortonville Volunteer Fire Department. Known to members as “Kecky”, Dan served in the department for 60 years in various capacities, including Past Chief, President, and District Fire Commissioner. The overwhelming attendance, with hundreds of family members, friends, fellow firefighters, EMS, and police officers, underscored the profound impact Dan had on his community.

Daniel Buddenhagen was born on March 22, 1944, in Callicoon, NY, to the late Herbert F. and Kathleen T. Davenport Buddenhagen, and was the youngest of five children. After serving his country in the US Navy, Dan Buddenhagen came home to serve his community with the Hortonville Volunteer Fire Department.

Past Chief Darryl Emmett said, “I had the opportunity to grow up in the Buddenhagen household. It’s the only place in this world I felt welcomed and respected, loved and got my a** handed to me all in the same sentence.”

While Dan’s second home was the Fire Department, his third was “the huntin’ club”. He was a member of the Tamarack Farm and Deer Club, where he shared his wisdom and camaraderie with fellow outdoorsmen.

To honor Dan, Callicoon and Roscoe Fire Departments sent their ladder trucks to hang a large American flag at the service. The wake included a Firematics Ceremony, where Paul Hendershot, a past president, and Past Chief Darryl Emmett, who recited the Fireman’s Prayer, paid their respects.

Dan’s granddaughter, Olivia Hendrickson, then sang a beautiful rendition of “Oh Danny Boy,” accompanied by her brother, Reece Hendrickson, on acoustic guitar. Dan’s son, Kurt Buddenhagen, Chief of the Hortonville Volunteer Fire Department, delivered a eulogy that highlighted his father’s love for his family, his dogs, and his community.

After a seven-year battle with cancer, Dan’s resilience and dedication to his loved ones remained unwavering. He spent his retirement cherishing moments with his family, enjoying time at home, at the fire department, and at the hunting club.

Dan’s legacy of selflessness, community service, and love will continue to inspire those who knew him. His passion for his family, friends, and community will live on in the hearts and minds of all he touched.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ride2Survive, the Hortonville Fire Department or the North Branch United Methodist Church.