Daniel J. Poellinger

Daniel (Dan) Jerome Poellinger, age 62, passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born September 11, 1963, in La Crosse to Jerome and Dorothy (Johnson) Poellinger.

Dan was quiet and kind, generous, and known for his endless patience. He lived humbly, yet his reserved presence brought comfort to many. The loss is immeasurable, but so is the love he leaves behind.

He graduated from Logan High School in 1981 and worked for many years at Goodwill as a Team Leader, where he found purpose and a second family. Dan enjoyed simple pleasures—growing tomatoes and peppers, canning his harvest (especially his cherished Dan Jam), and cooking in any form. Other hobbies included reading a wide variety of books, and assembling 3D puzzles. He was also musically talented and enjoyed playing for anyone who would listen.

Dan is survived by his wife, Cathy (Collins) Poellinger; children Ryan Poellinger and Molly (Ronnie) DeLong; father Jerome Poellinger and stepmother Bonnie Poellinger; sisters Patty (Craig Tourville) Schumacher and Karin (Mark) Kiehne; brother-in-laws Billy Patschull and Jack Patschull; and sister-in-law Jackie Patschull, along with many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Poellinger; brother-in-law David Schumacher; and nephew Christopher Schumacher.

The family extends sincere thanks to Dan’s Goodwill family for their care, support, and friendship. Dan will be lovingly remembered for his gentle heart and quiet strength.

A memorial gathering for family and friends will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at the Schumacher-Kish Funeral & Cremation Services of La Crosse, with a Prayer Service at 5:00 PM with Pastor Melissa Hood.