Daniel Jamieson Schifeling died Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2013, in his home with family. Dan was born Feb. 16, 1923, to Lois Jean and Walter Schifeling in Peoria.

After Pearl Harbor, he enlisted in the Army and became a B-24 Pilot. He married Anna Lee Leech May 21, 1944. They had hoped to celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary next year.

When the war concluded, Dan and Anna Lee returned to Illinois, where Dan completed his education, graduating from the University of Illinois Law School in 1949. Dan and Anna Lee then settled in St. Charles to create a solo practice of law and raise three sons. During this time, Dan was the first chair trumpet player and an active supporter of the Aurora American Legion Band. He also developed a love of photography. For years he taught an adult Bible study class at the Congregational United Church of Christ.

After 31 years of legal practice, Dan and Anna Lee moved to Brevard, N.C., to pursue their love of each other and the beauty of the mountains of North Carolina. They enjoyed hiking all over western North Carolina and Dan took thousands of photos of native wildflowers and scenic views. He also became the "official unofficial" photographer of many events for both family and friends. In addition, he played in an English Brass Band and in more informal instrumental music groups at church and in his neighborhood. Declining health caused Dan and Anna Lee to move to Eau Claire, Wis., in 2011, where they have enjoyed the mountain-like view from their hillside apartment in Oakwood Hills.

Dan will be remembered as a patriot who loved his country and the music that expressed that love. He was the patriarch of his family, and his loving interest and support was appreciated by all. He instilled strong values, patience, calm under pressure, and loyalty to one another.

Dan was preceded in death by his mother, Lois Jean Wallick (Earle), and his father, Walter Schifeling (Frieda).

He is survived by the love of his life, Anna Lee; sons, Daniel, Richard and David and their spouses Barbara, Iris and Joan Hamblin; grandchildren, Deirdre (Peter Colavito), Dietrich, Jeremy (Rachel Burstein), Todd (Catherine Emery), Erin, Christopher (Tracy) and William; and great-grandchildren, Sela and Madalena Colavito.

The family greatly appreciates the support of the Oakwood Hills Apartments, especially managers, Jill and Patrick; the care and ministry of Mary Barnes of First Congregational Church; the expert medical attention given by doctors Andrezej Strycek and Les Harrison and assistant, Marilyn; nursing care given by the staff of Sacred Heart Hospital on the second and fifth floors (especially Jim and Cassandra); and the care and attention from St. Joseph's Hospice given by John, Wendy and Marrianne.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be given to the Congregational UCC Church of St. Charles.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin is serving the family. Online condolences may be left at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.