Daniel Umbaugh

Daniel Gene Umbaugh died on Thursday morning, February 1st, surrounded by his beautiful family who released him into the arms of his dearest friend and savior, Jesus Christ, where he was reunited with his oldest daughter. During Dan’s last weeks of life, he spread joy to all, even in his suffering. He was a light to the world and will be missed by many.

Daniel was born to Arnold and Berniece Umbaugh on November 11, 1950, in Madison, IN. Dan has been a fighter from the beginning of his life. Surviving polio from a young age, it never stopped him from living fully. Growing up in Plymouth, Indiana, the youngest of three boys. He spent his childhood playing the saxophone, piano, organ, and harmonica. He was an Eagle Scout, a camp counselor, a lover of the outdoors and an avid fisherman. He went on to attend Indiana University on a music scholarship for the organ and graduated in 1973 with a business degree. 

On December 28th, 1974, Daniel married the love of his life, Barbara (Mannan). In his famous words, he “loved how she looked in that speedo” when they lifeguarded together. They began building their family in Bloomington, IN, while also starting his career in Life Insurance. Dan and Barb spent most of their life together in Carmel, Indiana, where they raised their five daughters. Dan loved spending as much time with his kids, being involved in youth group, mission trips, coaching softball and hosting groups of teenagers at their home; always providing a loving and safe space for all. 

Daniel never knew a stranger and took time to make everyone feel special. He was known for his infectious laugh, bear hugs and joyful smile. His daughters have many memories of their Dad playing the piano as often as he could. He spent his free time fishing any chance he could get, along with playing golf with friends and family. Dan was a huge sports fan, especially loving all things IU. 

Amidst all of the challenges life threw at Dan, he fought for joy. In his final season of life he enjoyed spending time on their deck, watching movies and sports with his wife, neighborhood hang outs and gatherings with family. His grandkids’ favorite memories of their Papa was all the tickling, fishing, jokes, and receiving his hugs and snuggles. His greatest joys in life were his wife, daughters and grandchildren. Dan felt blessed by God for providing special men for each of his daughters. He never missed a chance to tell each of them how proud he was of them and how much he loved them. 

Dan is survived by the love of his life for 49 years, Barbara Jo Umbaugh, beloved daughters Anna (Rob) Witzig, Lydia (Bob) Fox, Kathryn (Tyson) Aschliman, and Laura (Brandt) Booram, and beloved grandchildren, Brayden Reed, Will and Emma Witzig, Graycen, Caroline, and Jonathan Fox, TJ, Kai, and Ellie Aschliman, and Eli, Riley, and Harper Booram. He is also survived by his brothers, Mark (Suzanne) and David (Vainca) Umbaugh. Dan is preceded in death by his daughter Sarah Jane, parents Arnold and Berniece Umbaugh, and a host of many other loved ones.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Dan’s life: 

Visitation: February 8th, 5-7pm

Celebration Service: February 9th, 12pm 

Eagle Church: 5801 S Main St, Whitestown, IN 46075

In remembrance of Dan’s life- the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Riley Children's Hospital or Children's Tumor Foundation.