Obituary for Daniel Luke First

Daniel Luke First, age 64, passed away on September 11, 2023 with his family by his side. Dan was a lifelong dairy farmer with a passion for the land and his cows. He was committed to a lifestyle of hard work, personal achievements, and determination.

He was a Michigan State University graduate and made many lifelong friendships with his fraternity brothers at Farmhouse.

Dan suffered a brain aneurysm 17 years ago and defied all odds by applying the same qualities he utilized as a farmer to regain his health. He enjoyed 17 quality years and was able to see his son and daughter graduate from high school and college, get married and make him a grandpa. He was able to see his son pursue his dream of farming. Dan’s children are who they are because of him.

Dan enjoyed MSU football, his 1969 Chevelle, spending time at the lake, listening to The Farm Report and being with family.

Preceding him death was his father, John First. He survived by his wife of 40 years, Margie; children, Lindsey (Nick) Martin, and Josh (Kylie) First; grandchildren Austin Martin and Brant First; mother, Roberta Delemarter; sisters, Jean (Lloyd) Sutton, and Susan (Richard) Wilson; many nieces and nephews, including special nephew, Levi Sutton who had insight to Dan’s needs; and his cat, Romeo.

Dan has been cremated and his ashes will be scattered on the farm in a private ceremony.

The family will honor their Hero with a Celebration of Life on September 11, 2024. All are welcome to attend. The venue and time will be announced at a later date.

To honor Dan’s legacy, a scholarship will be awarded annually to an MSU student pursuing a career in the dairy industry. ‘And on the eight day, God looked down on his planned paradise and said “I need a caretaker.” So God made a farmer ~ Paul Harvey

On line condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.