Dan Meyers
Daniel “Dan” Michael Meyers, 65, of Grand Haven, was welcomed into the loving arms of his Lord on Saturday, December 13, 2025, surrounded by the music, laughter, and love that defined his remarkable life. A devoted husband, father, son, brother, educator, and musician, Dan’s life was outlined by service, heart, and harmony.
Born on September 14, 1960, in Manistee, to Robert and the late Elaine Meyers, Dan grew up in a home filled with love and music. From an early age, he displayed an exceptional talent for the trumpet, nurtured by his father, who taught him at home and at Manistee Catholic Central Schools. These early lessons shaped his life’s purpose and left a lasting impact on generations of students and musicians.
Dan’s musical journey continued at the University of Michigan, where he earned distinction as a Shepherd Scholar and performed as a solo trumpet with the marching band, as well as the basketball and hockey bands. His trumpet solo performances graced some of the nation’s most prestigious events, including the Bluebonnet Bowl, Super Bowl XVI, and the Rose Bowl. As a graduate assistant conductor, he led the U-M Marching Band, Hockey Band, and Fanfare Band and co-founded the Women’s Basketball Band.
A dedicated educator, Dan spent 18 years at West Shore Community College as professor of music and chair of arts and humanities, playing a key role in designing and securing funding for the college’s music wing at the Arts & Science Building. He later served as director of music at Muskegon Community College, where his leadership, humor, and creativity enriched every rehearsal, performance, and meeting. MCC President John Selmon called him a “champion for higher education” and a “gifted leader within the Arts and Humanities Department.” Through his work, Dan inspired countless students to pursue excellence and passion in their craft.
For more than 35 years, Dan served as music director at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Ludington, blending faith and artistry seamlessly. He was also a life member of the iconic Scottville Clown Band, bringing music and joy to audiences across Michigan for over 50 years.
Above all, Dan treasured his family. Married for 25 years to the love of his life, Melissa, their union was filled with laughter, adventure, and travel — from Austria and Italy to Greece and Tahiti, often alongside Melissa’s orchestras. He adored his daughters, Danielle, Ariana, and Elaina, supporting their schools and musical pursuits. For over 20 years, he volunteered with Grand Haven Area Public Schools, advocating for music and orchestra programs and serving as “The Voice” of the annual GHHS Halloween Show.
Dan embraced life with enthusiasm, whether golfing with legends like Jack Nicklaus at The Bear in Traverse City, traveling with his family, or cheering on Michigan football as a devoted season ticket holder. His tears of joy at Michigan’s 2023 National Championship reflected the spirit of a true Michigan Man. Summers at Round Lake brought him special joy, where he created cherished memories with family and friends, often concluding the day by playing “Taps” across the water-a quiet, heartfelt gesture that mirrored his love for those around him and his reverence for life.
Dan is survived by his wife, Melissa; daughters Danielle, Ariana, and Elaina; his father Robert; brothers David, Donald, and Robert Jr.; sister Denise; and a large extended family of friends, colleagues, and former students who will always remember his big heart, laughter, and unwavering kindness.
Visitation will be held 1 to 3 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, December 19, 2025 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025 at Lakeshore Baptist Church, 17306 Church Hill Dr, Grand Haven. Attendees are encouraged to wear Maize and Blue in honor of Dan’s beloved Michigan Wolverines. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Daniel M. Meyers Music MemorialFund at the Grand Haven Community Foundation.
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