Daniel John Mathers was born the youngest of five, and only son, to Clarence and Ida (Haddock) Mathers on October 19, 1949, in North Platte, NE.  On Sunday, June 8, 2025, he passed away at Great Plains Health in North Platte at 75 years of age surrounded by his family.

Immediately after high school, Dan was hired on with the Union Pacific Railroad as a carman, but quickly rerouted his life when he voluntarily enlisted into the United States Air Force on December 27, 1968. After serving his country for four years, he was honorably discharged in December of 1972. Dan returned to North Platte and resumed his career with the railroad which he retired from after 42 years.  When he wasn't working in the railyards, he took quiet pride in the stewardship of his land and cattle; a passion he shared with his children. After dating for 19 years, Dan married Martha Ricley in Gothenburg, NE on November 15, 2008.

Dan was independent and naturally handy, if he didn't know how to fix something, he learned.  He put those skills to good use completely gutting and remodeling the house he bought in Maxwell for him and Martha to live in. His proudest role was that of father. Dan modeled patience for his children while also making them aware of the expectations he had for each of them.  He was laid back, never too serious, and exceedingly selfless. His children and family always had what they needed. Dan made a point to be present for every family event including graduations, weddings, reunions, funerals, and even baby showers. On your birthday, you could always expect a phone call or a card in the mail. Pizza nights and long-distance road trips to see the grandkids will be memories treasured forever.

Dan's surviving family members include his wife, Martha Mathers of Maxwell; children, Stacy (Dan) Iske of Sutherland, Shane (Ashley) Mathers of Annapolis, MD, Casey (Josh) Handlin of Highlands Ranch, CO, Logan (Stephanie) Ricley of Gothenburg, Malery (Nick Reitz) Mathers of Hershey, and Tad (Ashley) Mathers of Sutherland; grandchildren, Katelyn (fiancé, Kadin Oettinger) Iske, Sage, Carver, Ida, and Maple Mathers, Tristan and Zoe Handlin, Hayden and Brigham Ricley, Chase, Ryker, Boyd, and Crew Mathers; sister, Pat Albers; brother-in-law, Doug Knott; other family including many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Preceding him in death are his parents, Clarence and Ida; sisters, Marylene Houser, Karen Yates, and Verdena Knott.

Memorials are suggested to the family for future designation.  Expressions of sympathy and livestreaming of the service can be found at www.carpentermemorial.com.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 1:30 PM at Carpenter Memorial Chapel with the Rev. John Sexson officiating.  Burial will follow at Fort McPherson National Cemetery with the rendering of full military honors.  Book signing will be on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Carpenter Memorial Chapel from 9 AM to 5 PM with family present to greet friends from 5 PM to 7 PM.