Mr. Daniel Patrick "Dan" Litchfield, 52, passed away Thursday, April 16, 2026, after a long battle with Guillain-Barré Syndrome at Tucker Hospice House in Kannapolis.

A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 am Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at St. James the Greater Catholic Church, where he was member. Fr. Luyen Dau, C.Ss.R. will officiate. A luncheon will follow in the church parish hall.

The family will receive friends from 10 to 10:45 am Tuesday at the church.

Dan was born January 11, 1974 in Warren, MI. He was a son of the late James E. Litchfield and Loretta Wypiszewski Litchfield.

Dan had an infectious smile. It didn’t just light up a room—it was reflected on every face around him. He had a kind and caring nature, and was open and friendly to all he met, making friends easily wherever he went. It was not uncommon for him to be invited to gatherings by people he had only recently met. He had a deep love for animals and a special gift for connecting with them. Dan could make a pet out of even the meanest alligator or the most ornery mule. Many of his animals had been abandoned or mistreated before he found them, but through his care and affection, they became loving and loyal companions.

Dan was the center of support for his family. He gave of himself daily—mind, heart, and body—working long hours to provide for those he loved. Even so, he always made time for his wife and sons, ensuring they felt deeply loved and cared for. He had an adventurous spirit, best described as restrained chaos. He was often drawn to speed and daring pursuits—supercars, stock cars, and motorcycles were never quite enough. Skydiving from 28,000 feet, bungee jumping from six stories, and climbing electrical towers were just a few of the ways he satisfied his need for adrenaline.

Dan was a man of exceptional character and integrity. Strong in his faith and beliefs, he remained open and accepting of others and the world around him. He embraced life with curiosity, wonder, and respect, always staying true to himself. He was a natural teacher and role model, giving and learning in equal measure. Dan became a surrogate father to many, always ready to lend a helping hand or share his knowledge. The lessons he taught went far beyond practical skills—they were rooted in the example he set through the way he lived and treated others.

When his family says they lived life to the fullest, they truly did. Dan and his wife spent the last 9 years traveling the country, experiencing all our great country had to offer, meeting the most incredible people, seeing all God created, going on adventures, trying new foods, taking long walks on the beach, hiking and biking trails.

Dan is survived by his wife, Joy Marie Vettrano Litchfield, with whom he shared a love that most only read about-deep, enduring, and nearly perfect in every way. They shared a love that few ever do. They were more in love the day he passed than we were the day they got married. People that didn't know them would comment that they could see their love for each other in their eyes. It was palpable.

He is also survived by two sons, Buck Good and wife Vanessa of Kannapolis and Shawn Good and his wife, Elizabeth of Higgins Lake, MI; two granddaughters, Karlee and, Kasee Good; a grandson, Braxton LeNire; a brother, James F. Litchfield; all his California kids; and many other special brothers, sisters, and extended family.

Dan was love, he was kindness, he lived his faith, he cherished his family and friends. 

Memorials may be sent to St. James the Greater Catholic Church, 139 Manor Avenue, SW, Concord, NC 28025.