Nine members gathered at the Jones-Pearson Funeral Home in Park Rapids to pay respects to Daniel Peil for his service in the US Army from 1960 - 1963 as a paratrooper with the 101st Airborne. Flagline was established as snow fell for visitation, and we stood down during the service, where the funeral home had set up coffee and a warm place for us. Temps were in the mid 20's, so we were very appreciative! Flagline was re-established as Daniel was brought out after the service. Family and friends departed for the Park Rapids American Legion for a luncheon, while some of our members headed to the cemetery in Nary (near Bemidji) for interment, and some had to head home. The roads were not great. We had one new member join us - thanks Mark!
Eight members paid respects at interment at the Nary Cemetery, as snow fell again. Military honors were provided by the Star of the North Marine Corps League. Flagline was dismissed after all family and friends had departed Daniel's final resting place.
In talking with Daniel's lifelong partner, she stated that for many years Daniel never talked about his military service, but in later years, grew proud of the time he had served and enjoyed his friendships with other veterans and his time at the VA, and that he would have absolutely loved the PGR being there. We learned that in the 70's, Daniel's first wife and 3 children were killed in a house fire turning his life upside down, he had a special place in his heart for the elderly and children with disabilities, and that he had a great singing voice, participating in bands across Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and South Dakota. During the service we heard several of his recordings that were played - he certainly was gifted!
It was an honor to stand in honor, dignity and respect for Daniel - thank you for all who were able to come today, and thank you to all who were with us in spirit, and thank you to Daniel for his service to our country.
