In loving memory of

Daniel M. Rosenthal
May 31, 1949 - October 28, 2008

Daniel M. Rosenthal, age 59, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 28, 2008 in Madison. Dan was born on May 31, 1949 in New York City. He graduated from the University of Minnesota-Duluth with a degree in Environmental Engineering. He used that degree while working for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, where he was a vigorous enforcer of clean air standards. Dan was devoted to his sons, and to the cause of worker justice. He used his skills as a volunteer translator at the Worker Rights Center; and spent two years in the Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic building water systems. Earlier this year, he volunteered with Jewish World Service in Oaxaca developing water capture systems. Dan enjoyed camping, the outdoors, biking, and traveling with his sons and his fiancee. Latin America was an especially meaningful destination. Dan is survived by his two sons, Joe and Alex Rosenthal; sister Susan Rosenthal; brother-in-law Howie Perlin; Nephew David Perlin; fiancee Kim Scott; and friend Mary Foster Rosenthal. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2008 at 5:00PM with a visitation beginning at 3:00PM until the time of service at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Worker Rights Center in Madison.  

Tributes

Steve Lee wrote on Nov 3, 2008:

"Dan worked with us at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, on a program to prevent leaks from storage tanks. We remember his enthusiasm and smarts. He was a good guy, and we are sorry he is gone. Condolences to the family."

Sarah Kalnajs wrote on Oct 31, 2008:

"I am deeply saddened to learn of Dan's death. He was a student of mine at the Monkey Bar Gymnasium and often a workout partner when I took classes myself. He was funny and positive and just one of those people who can make you feel "good" just being in their presence. After my mother died, when I went back to the gym, it was Dan who was the first person to come up to me and ask how I was doing. He will truly be missed. Sincerely, Sarah Kalnajs Madison, WI"

Mike Halsted wrote on Oct 30, 2008:

"I worked with Dan during 1995-1999 in the Air Program - only really talked to him on the phone. What I liked the most is how upbeat, alive and personable he was! I imagine he fought a courageous battle and is at peace with God now. May that truth give you peace! Mike Halsted - WDNR"

Mick Michaelsen wrote on Oct 30, 2008:

"Please accept my deepest sympathy for the passing of Dan. I just learned of his death an hour ago. Unfortunately, I have not seen Dan since I retired from DNR in 2006 nor was I aware of his illness. I am fighting back some emotions while I write this message to you. I can only say that I always considered him a friend and a brother in the fight against pollution. We worked together on many, many enforcement actions in the air program often with great results. I worked with Dan while he was stationed in Superior as the air quality engineer. I was the environmental enforcement specialist in Spooner. We had many occasions to talk family and history and of course politics. I will always remember him. Sincerely, Mick Michaelsen. "

Claire Ortwein wrote on Oct 29, 2008:

"A few years ago Dan and I dated for about eight months. Although we ultimately decided that we weren't really a good match for each other, we parted as friends and I have always held him in the highest regard. His social consciousness cannot be overestimated; I've never known anyone who was as invested in improving the lives of others, particularly minorities and those in Third World countries. He was incredibly kind and sensitive, and could always be counted on for support, engrossing conversation, and a constant desire to find joy, humor and meaning in life. I had long hoped that he would find a partner, and was gratified to find mention of his fiancee. Kim, I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I know quite well just what a great guy Dan was, and can fully appreciate your grief. I'm so glad he had you. My sincerest condolences to Joe, Alix and all of Dan's family and friends. We've lost one of the truly good guys. Peace to all."

Jeff Schimpff wrote on Oct 29, 2008:

"I enjoyed running into Dan in the kitchenette/break room at work, as he always was in good spirits and very upbeat. His voice announced an enthusiasm for the joys of life. We especially shared a mutual love for the Bicycle. Pedal on, Dan. "

Lisa Helmuth wrote on Oct 29, 2008:

"We were fortunate to have such a fine person represent the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Thank you Dan for contributing your time and life to worthy causes throughout the world. We are sorry for your loss and wish you much strength to get through this time, and many joyful warm and loving memories. The Helmuth Family."