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Daniel ‘Dan’ Albert McVey, a man whose life was defined by his unwavering dedication, boundless generosity, and deep-rooted love for his family and his community. To say that Dan was a good man is an understatement. He was an extraordinary man that simply acted like an ordinary one. Dan was an amazing father, brother, uncle, grandfather and son. He loved deeply and was deeply loved in return. Dan passed away August 9, 2024, in Colorado Springs surrounded by family and love after unexpected medical complications. His departure leaves a profound void in our hearts, but we are here to celebrate a life well-lived and to reflect on the many ways Dan touched our lives. 

Dan was born October 19, 1960, at Sacred Heart Hospital in Lamar, to Louellen and Nyle McVey.  Dan’s middle name, Albert, was after Albert (Abe) Luschen, his maternal grandfather. Dan shared the same birthdate as his older brother, Larry Nyle McVey, just 13 years apart. From the day he was born, Dan was the apple of his sister Penny’s eye, melting her heart with his little boy smile.  

Dan spent his early childhood days at the family farm in Pritchett. Dan played under the shade tree at the farm, creating his makeshift auction venue with dirt outlines for his sale barn and corrals.  His toy marbles represented his livestock, and with a stick in his hand to guide his pretend cows, an auction was about to be called.  He would say, “When I grow up, I want to be an auctioneer!”  

Dan also spent a lot of time horseback riding in the canyons North of the farmhouse with his brother Larry. Larry recalls that Dan was quite small, which made their mother, Louellen, constantly worried. The brothers were known as “Big Bud” and “Little Bud.” 

There was a memorable time when Dan and his friend, Chris, stayed in a horse trailer during a roping school with Larry. While Larry and his wife enjoyed their time, Dan and Chris made the most of their stay, turning it into a wild adventure. The horses worked during the day at the roping school and then took care of the two wild cowboys in the evening. Larry stated that there were some other boys that were also attending the school, and Dan and Chris just had to play Cowboys and Indians. 

Dan had a horse named Popcorn. After a good ride, Dan and Larry unsaddled their horses and turned them out into the corral. Popcorn rolled on a rubber feed pan, creating a strong suction that stuck to his belly. When Dan hopped on Popcorn, the horse bucked vigorously, much to Dan’s dismay. Larry’s laughter only added to Dan’s frustration.

Dan graduated from Pritchett High School May 18, 1979. He furthered his education at Seward County Community College in Liberal, Kansas, and later attended Swanky Bull Riding School in Rose Hill, Kansas. However, Dan’s deepest desire was to become an auctioneer, a dream he fulfilled by graduating from Auctioneer School in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1981. This marked the beginning of a life filled with purpose and service.

Dan is perhaps best known for his passion for auctioneering. In 1985, Dan married Cathy Dinkela, and together they established D/M Auctions, a business built on hard work, integrity, and honesty. In 1989, Dan earned first runner-up in the Tri-State Auctioneer’s Contest in Lamar. In 1991, he was a top finalist in the International Contest sponsored by the National Auctioneer’s Association in Omaha, Nebraska, and also achieved first runner-up in the Colorado state competition. Later that year, he won the Kansas State Fair Auctioneer Competition, earning the title of Kansas State Champion Auctioneer. Dan founded D/M Auctions 34 years ago, and through his hard work and dedication, the business became a cornerstone of Baca County.

Dan’s impact extended far beyond his professional success. His business allowed him to give back to his community in profound ways. Dan had a unique ability to say no to business dealings, but never to supporting and uplifting others. He was always willing to help, offer advice, and provide a warm hug to anyone in need. His generosity extended to sponsoring numerous youth and community events, leaving a legacy of kindness and support.

Dan’s pride in his community was evident in everything he did. Approximately five years ago, he took on the role of a Springfield Town Council member. In this position, Dan worked diligently to ensure that Springfield remained a strong and resourceful community. His commitment to the council reflected his deep love for the place he called home and his desire to see it grow and thrive. 

While Dan’s professional and civic contributions were significant, his greatest joy was indeed his family. He was a devoted father to Marcus and Jozy Stegman, Danelle and Chris Griffin, and Abby McVey. A loving grandfather to Kieley Stegman, Mariah Stegman, Landen Stegman, Aevah Pheails, Haylie Griffin, Syrridia Delatorre, Wyatt Richardson, Ruthie Piper, Sawyer Sena, Ruger Piper and Nova Pheails. Dan’s long-time partner Sheri was an important part of his life, together they had a large family grounded in love and mutual respect. Dan also greatly enjoyed being a step father to Sheri’s children Johnny Reed, Jordan Piper, Jessica Reed, Jennifer Reed. Dan worked tirelessly to ensure his family was well cared for, always putting their needs above his own. He enjoyed sitting around the table playing “Fast Track” and sharing stories and laughs with friends and family, often reminiscing about the pranks he played in his youth and how his children continued his mischievous traits in their own ways.

Dan’s rugged spirit extended to all aspects of his life. He operated a successful ranching business, demonstrating his deep connection to the land and his tireless work ethic. His ability to balance his diverse interests and commitments is a testament to his true strength and dedication. 

Dan was known for his surprising acts of kindness. He had an innate ability to recognize when someone was in need, and was always there to lend a hand or hug. His auction business often played a role in fulfilling these acts of generosity, and his kindness made a significant difference in many lives. 

Today, as we reflect on Dan’s life, and are reminded of his unwavering commitment to his community and his family. His legacy is one of selflessness, hard work, and profound love. Though Dan is no longer here with us, his spirit and the values he stood for will continue to inspire us all and runs true in the veins of his family. 

Let us honor Dan’s memory by carrying forward his legacy of kindness, dedication, and community spirit. May we strive to be as giving and supportive as he was, and may we find comfort in knowing that his impact will forever remain in the lives he touched.

Rest in Peace, Dan McVey. Your presence will be deeply missed, but your memory will forever remain in our hearts. Sit in your saddle and fly high cowboy as you ride into the forever sunset!

Funeral services were held August 17, 2024, at the Baca County Fairgrounds. Interment followed at the Springfield Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Pritchett FFA and Springfield FFA.

Arrangements were under the direction of Maltbie Funeral Services.