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Daniel Edward Darnstaedt Sr "Big Dan" of Mooresville, NC, formerly of Westbrook, CT passed away unexpectedly at 57, on December 20, 2023. Big Dan was currently working as a Foreman for James River Equipment in Charlotte, NC when he passed away. He loved his job and the work family he had acquired there over the last 8+ years. Prior to moving to NC from CT in 2015, Dan had worked for Bell Power Systems. He enjoyed all of his John Deere education and felt he could never know enough about them. Big Dan was always passionate about racing. He raced for many years at Waterford Speedbowl where him and his team helped build a division and went on to win a multitude of races. His team motto of "get by with a little help from your friends" became a way of life. Big Dan was well respected by many fans, fellow racers and friends at the "Bowl". In 2005, Big Dan and his family joined Silver City Quarter Midget Club where he loved nothing more than watching his kids, Dan Jr and Raegan, as well as ALL of the other kids on the track. It was never about the politics of racing, or the competition, his focus was always about the kids making memories that would last forever. He worked on everyone's car, he helped out anyone he could. Big Dan loved playing football in the infield after the races were over, he listened to stories the kids told and they listened to his stories about his racing. To know him was to love him and to love him was to be loved by him. Big Dan touched so many lives with his kindness, support and his "Big" heart. He had an infectious smile and laugh and was truly "One of the Good Guys" Big Dan was preceded in death by his parents; Judith Marion Carter (Parsons), and David Spencer Darnstaedt, and Nephew, William Miller. Big Dan is survived by his Wife, his Soulmate, his Best Friend Lori Darnstaedt (Miller), Son, Daniel Darnstaedt II (Alexandria), Granddaughters Valerie and Terra Darnstaedt, Daughter, Raegan Olmsted (Andrew Foreman), Brother, William Darnstaedt (Tina), Nieces Rebecca Miller Duval (Andy) Great Nephew AJ Duval, Niece, Jessica Darnstaedt , Brother, Robert Carter (Mindy), Nieces Megan and Carry Carter, Sister in law, Leanne Gnyp (Mark), Nephews, Matthew Dahlmeyer, Frank Dahlmeyer (Valerie), Great Niece, Faye Dahlmeyer, Great Nephew, Miles Dahlmeyer), Brother-in-law, Ronnie Miller(Kelly Zito) and many more loving family, and friends who quickly became family. Visitation will be held for friends and family on Thursday, December 28, at Cavin-Cook Funeral home in Mooresville from 4pm to 7pm. We will also be holding a celebration of life for friends and family in Connecticut at a later date, details to follow. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a donation to a charity of your choice in honor of Big Dan. Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Darnstaedt family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.

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Daniel Edward Darnstaedt, Sr

September 6, 1966 - December 20, 2023