Daniel Stengel

Stengel, Daniel Gil Heidemann

Daniel was 39 when he died unexpectedly, in cardiac arrest, on February 20, 2022.  Born in Busan, South Korea, he came to Minnesota when he was four months old to be adopted by Sandy Heidemann and Jim Stengel, who survive him along with his sister Carrie (Edgar), nephew Emilio, uncles Mark, Brad, Jon and Dave, and cousins Jon, Sarah, Jamie and Karissa.  Dan loved movies and music of many kinds.  He memorized movies made by favorite directors and actors and wrote hundreds of his own songs, teaching himself to play guitar and record his music.

Dan also suffered mental illness.  Among the many cruelties of his schizoaffective disorder, his illness led to social isolation.  His parents and sister, who loved him wholly, are sad that so few people knew his gifts and talent, his humor, or his passionate striving as a songwriter.  As he wrote, “Peace above, despair below, in the shadow I will grow.”

Dan was loved, and he is missed. We are consoled knowing that he also wrote, “Let the love in from outside, it’s never too late to go inside.”

Thanks to Destiny Home Services for housing and caring for Dan  in his final three years.

Memorials preferred to NAMI MN or 826msp.org creative writing programs for youth. If you prefer to send flowers, please send to Edina Community Lutheran Church on Friday, March 4.

Memorial Service Saturday, March 5, 2:00 P.M. at EDINA COMMUNITY LUTHERAN CHURCH, 4113 w 54TH ST, Edina, MN. Service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend. Follow this link:https://www.eclc.org/sunday-live-stream