Dan Mihalovich's Obituary
Daniel "Dan" Francis Mihalovich, age 91, of Centerville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at Homestead of Centerville, surrounded by the love and memories of a life well lived.
Born on July 21, 1934, in Rathbun, Iowa, Dan was the son of Daniel George Mihalovich and Victoria (Cerato) Mihalovich. Raised with a strong work ethic and deep family values, he graduated from Centerville High School and continued his education with a year of college studies before embarking on a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, and lasting friendships.
On February 4, 1956, Dan married the love of his life, Ileta June Reeves. Together they built a remarkable life and family, welcoming five children: Dan, Joan, Carla, Dennis, and David. Their partnership extended beyond their home as they proudly co-owned and operated Tiki Marine Inc., working side by side through the years. Their dedication and commitment helped establish a business that became a familiar part of the community.
Dan never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone, especially if the topic was cars. He had a lifelong passion for automobiles and enjoyed sharing stories, opinions, and memories about them with friends and family. He was an enthusiastic sports fan who could often be found watching NASCAR or cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes and Iowa State Cyclones. In recent years, he especially enjoyed watching Indiana Fever games and following the exciting career of Caitlin Clark.
While Dan enjoyed sports and cars, nothing brought him greater happiness than time spent with his family. Whether gathered around a table, attending family events, or simply sharing everyday moments, he treasured the relationships he built with those he loved. His steady presence, sense of humor, and genuine interest in the lives of others created memories that will be cherished for generations.
Faith was also an important part of Dan's life. He was a devoted member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Centerville, where he found fellowship, strength, and spiritual guidance throughout the years. Dan will be remembered for his kindness, his gift for conversation, his unwavering love for his family, and the countless lives he touched along the way.
Those left to honor Dan's memory are his children, Dan (Julie) Mihalovich Jr., Joan (Terry) Lang, Dennis (Jolonda) Mihalovich, and David (Sherry) Mihalovich; his son-in-law, Flint Wahl; 11 grandchildren, Kelsey Mihalovich, Tony (Ashley) Lang, Andrew (Kim) Lang, Adam (Brandi) Lang, Dallas (Taija) Wahl, Isaac Wahl, Brett (Julie) Mihalovich, Lucas (Jessie) Mihalovich, Collin Mihalovich, Samantha Mihalovich and Evan Mihalovich; 18 great-grandchildren, Addison, Tanzi, Chace, Maddyx, Byren, Matthew, Blayne, Burkley, Logan, Oliver, Asher, Lilli, Elli, Liberti, Lanni, Kobi, Sofia and Frank; his brother, Tim (Vicki) Mihalovich; as well as numerous extended family and friends.
Dan was preceded in death by his wife, Ileta on November 21, 2024; his parents, Daniel and Victoria Mihalovich; his daughter, Carla Wahl; his granddaughter, Danielle Wahl; and his siblings, Paul Mihalovich and Ann Wilson.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00AM, Friday, June 5, 2026 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Centerville with Fr. Ron Hodges officiating. Burial will follow the service at Haines Cemetery, north of Centerville. Visitation will take place Thursday, June 4, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville with the family greeting friends from 5:00PM-7:00PM, with a prayer service at 5:30PM, conducted by Deacon Ed Kamerick. In lieu of flowers, Memorials in honor of Dan, may be made to either St. Mary's Catholic Church, or to the family to be determined at a later date, and can be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Mihalovich Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome.
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