Daniel Paul Pavlik

Daniel Paul Pavlik, 71, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 14, 2025 in Sioux City, Iowa. Dan was a creative soul with a joy for art, music, and had an easygoing nature that made him a pleasure to be around. His kindness, warmth, and quick wit ensured he was always up for a good laugh.

Dan was born on May 11, 1953, to Shirley (Heidbrink) and Vincent Pavlik. He grew up on the family farm in Merrill, Iowa, and graduated from Hinton Community High School before earning a degree in English Education from Iowa State University in 1975.

Throughout his life, Dan was a skilled craftsman. He worked as a woodworker, carpenter, sign painter, and draftsman. He also had experience as an English teacher at the Walt Hill and Westfield High Schools. His career took him across the country, from Nebraska to Texas, Florida, Colorado, and South Dakota, working in industrial insulation, metal building construction, asbestos removal, and petroleum installation. His ability to adapt and master different trades was a testament to his intelligence and industriousness. He spent his last year enjoying the company of the Sunrise Retirement Community staff who provided compassionate, outstanding care. 

Beyond his work, Dan had a passion for rock and roll, reading, playing the drums and piano, and classic western television. His imaginative spirit and love of learning were lifelong pursuits. Whether he was sketching, writing poems, enjoying rock music, or sharing stories, he brought warmth and laughter to those around him. His humor, kindness, and creative gifts will be deeply missed by all who knew him 

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Shirley and Vincent Pavlik, and his brother, Thomas Pavlik. He is survived by his brother David Pavlik (Lana), his sister, Mary Kovarna (Steve) and nieces Enid Figi (Nora), Amy Pavlik (Giancarlo), Beth Trejo (Luis), and a nephew, Kyle Kovarna (Rachel). He took joy in his great-nieces and great-nephews, always cherishing time spent with family. 

A celebration of life will be held at Deer Run Golf Course, 801 First Avenue Hinton, Iowa on Sunday, February 23 from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor Dan’s life and share memories. The Nelson-Berger Northside Chapel has assisted the family with cremation.