Dan Lindholm, age 65, of Waldron, MO, passed away December 23, 2024, in Kansas City. Preceded in death by his father, CV Lindholm and brother James. He is survived by his wife Lynette, mother Joan, siblings Jack (Sharon), Janet (David & Katherine), sister in law Evelyn, (Nathan, Melanie, Phillip & Melissa), best friend Lynn Hansen & beloved dog, Dolly.
An ardent supporter of his hometown, Armstrong, IA, throughout his life, Dan most recently was a contributor to the local paper with his column “My Hometown”. He wrote of his memories growing up & the connection with those lucky enough to call Armstrong home at some point in their lives.
He was a hard worker throughout his life. His first job was in grade school at Colston’s Drug Store emptying waste baskets, eventually working behind the soda fountain. In high school he became staff photographer for the Armstrong Journal, documenting all the goings on in a small town. One particular photo he took showed a dummy on an inner tube fishing in the sewage treatment pond south of town. Legend has it that Dan & some of his friends may have had something to do with the prank. He also worked at Radio Shack in Fairmont, MN. After graduation he managed stores in Dubuque, IA & Worthington, MN.
Dan was a talented musician, playing French horn in concert & marching bands, percussion in jazz band & singing in choir. His band director & mentor, Gene Van Nest, became a life long friend. Early interests growing up became passions during his life: animals (his menagerie included dogs, hamsters, lizards, fish, sea horses & a one eyed mouse named Ralph), electronics (CB & Ham radios) and vehicles - specifically trains, Jeeps & fire trucks.
In the 80’s he purchased an old fire truck from Bertha, MN, where his maternal great grandfather was the sheriff. He spent the rest of his life restoring it, taking it to parades around the Midwest.
In the early 80’s Dan attended the EMS program at Century College in White Bear Lake, MN to become a paramedic. He began his career in Cedar Falls, IA, eventually moving to Kansas City, MO where he became Deputy EMS Medical Director. Dan also worked for FEMA teaching classes to medical providers. He was on the grounds of the Pentagon for a class during 9/11.
Dan suffered greatly throughout his life due to an injury in high school. He endured years of pain, surgeries & hospital stays. It prevented him from enjoying some of the everyday pleasures many of us take for granted, yet he never complained. He faced each day with gratitude & worked hard just to survive. He continued to show kindness & compassion to others through his work and everyday interactions.
A memorial service is planned this spring in Armstrong, IA.