Daniel Arthur Wilson, 82, of Canton, Ohio (recently moved to Huntsville, AL), passed away peacefully at home on August 27, 2025, with family nearby.

Born on March 17, 1943, in Canton, Ohio, Dan was the son of the late Mary Lou and George Wilson. He is preceded in death by his brothers Edward Wilson and David Wilson, and sister-in-law Beth Wilson. He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Linda Louise Harbert Wilson, his sister Barbara (Jerry) Zook, brothers Rick Wilson and George Patrick (Teresa) Wilson, and sister-in-law Donna Wilson.

He is also survived by his three children: Kelly (Steve) Wright, Kevin (Sonia) Wilson and Ken (Shelly) Wilson. He leaves behind cherished grandchildren Alex (Brittney) Wright, Kyle Wilson, Lauren Wright, and Luke Wilson, as well as his great-grandson Zachary Wright, age 5.

Dan met Linda, his high school sweetheart, in study hall, and their first date was the junior prom. They married in 1964, beginning a love story that spanned six decades. During their first year of marriage, Dan was stationed with the U.S. Air Force in Crete, Greece, after also serving in Italy. Upon returning home, they settled in Canton, Ohio, where they raised their family.

A graduate of Canton South High School (Class of 1961), Dan went on to earn his degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati in 1975. His quick wit and intelligence were evident throughout his education, so much so that family often joked about him "teaching the professor." He later enjoyed a long career with The Timken Company, where his work took him across the globe before his retirement in 2005.

Dan and Linda lived in China for nearly four years while working for Timken and he was eager to share every part of that experience with his family. Whether it was food, culture, or stories from his travels, his generosity shone through in how he wanted those he loved to feel the same sense of wonder he did.

Dan was a man who loved to explore, whether traveling internationally, hitting the open road in the RV after retirement, or simply trying something new. He instilled in his children a love of life, laughter, and curiosity.

Dan's sense of humor never wavered, even in his final days. On his last trip to the ER, a nurse asked him for his birthdate as part of a routine assessment. Without missing a beat, he grinned and replied, "Why, are you going to get me a present?" That quick wit and playful spirit were pure Dan, bringing laughter and light in every season of life.

Dan's life was full of love, adventure, generosity, and family. He will be deeply missed and remembered for his humor, his intelligence, and the joy he brought to every journey.

A celebration of Dan's life will be held in Ohio at a later date, with military honors and a gathering to share stories, laughter, and memories. In the meantime, the family asks that you raise a glass, drink a beer, and give a toast in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Dan's memory to the Alzheimer's Association or to your local hospice chapter.