John Daniel "Dan" Metzler's Obituary
METZLER, John Daniel “Dan”, age 84, of Sugarcreek Twp., Ohio, formerly of Kettering, passed away after a long battle with cancer and went to be with his lord and savior on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his family.
Dan graduated from Fairmont High School, where he played baseball and continued his pitching career at Bowling Green State University. He dedicated over 41 years of his career as a title examiner, traveling the backroads to many counties, and retired from Chicago Title Insurance in 2004, thoroughly enjoying retirement. Dan faithfully attended Xenia Church of the Nazarene, where he enjoyed the fellowship of his small group. He was a long-time member of Miami Valley Beagle Club and Clark County Beagle Club, raising and training field trial beagles for many years.
Dan was a soft-spoken, gentle, and caring man who was known for his kindness, generosity, and friendly nature. He had a relaxed, laid-back personality and always had a smile on his face. Deeply devoted to his family, Dan took great pride in the life he built alongside his wife, Karen, and loved being surrounded by those he cherished. He found joy in the simple things—sitting on the porch watching birds, spending time outdoors, and enjoying the peace of his home. Dan had a passion for raising and training beagles through his kennel, Sugar Belle Beagles, and took great pride in the dogs he raised. He enjoyed fishing, mushroom hunting, and watching his favorite teams, including the Cincinnati Reds, Bengals, and Ohio State Buckeyes.
Family traditions were very important to Dan. He was an early riser, often starting his day at 5 a.m. by raising the American flag and later lowering it each evening—a meaningful routine that reflected his sense of pride and consistency. He enjoyed Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, and annual trips to Siesta Key, Florida. Dan especially loved attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and activities, always showing his support and encouragement, wearing the appropriate hat. His land and the home he built and cared for, for over 50 years were among his greatest sources of pride.
Among many things, Dan will be remembered for his gentle spirit, unwavering devotion to his family, and the quiet, steady way he cared for those around him.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John R. Metzler and Charlotte Metzler (Hale); his brother, Joe Metzler; his sister, Elaine Lyons-Durig; and his infant grandson, Brendan Bicknell. He is survived by his spouse of 62 years, Karen; his sons, Andrew Metzler (Daniel Daane) and A.J. Metzler (Debbie); his daughter, Amy (James) Barr; six grandchildren, Braden Barr, Jordyn (Dane) Hall, Preston Barr, Reagan Metzler, Ryan (Darby) Metzler, and Larry Riddle; great granddaughter Maren Metzler, long time dear friends Al & Janie Brothers, beagle buddies Steve Smith & Jack Gardner, and numerous family members and friends. The family would like to thank Kettering Health Cancer Center and Ohio Valley Hospice for their loving care and support.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Xenia Church of the Nazarene, where funeral services will begin at 12:00 p.m. with Pastors Michael Hancock and Jared Horne officiating. Burial will immediately follow at Bellbrook Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shoes for the Shoeless, Dayton Branch, Xenia Church of the Nazarene Youth, Samaritan's Purse, or the charity of your choice.
Conner & Koch Funeral Home in Bellbrook is serving the family. Condolences may be sent to the family at https://connerandkoch.com.
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