Daniel Porter Gatlin, 45, of Valparaiso, was called home to his Savior on Tuesday, March 10, 2025. He joins his maternal grandparents, Daniel and Eileen Cosher, and paternal grandparents, Porter and Nellie Gatlin, in blessed eternity.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted parents, Harold and Susan; his beloved siblings: April (Nick) and David (Melissa); his cherished nieces, Avah and Olivia; dear aunts, Caryn (Ben) Willard and Shirley (Mark) Williams, and uncle, Ron (Janice) Gatlin; and many loving cousins, extended family and friends.
The first-born child to Harold and Susan, Daniel proved to be a strong role model and shining light to his younger siblings and an admirable example of perseverance and gratitude to all who knew him. Though he was diagnosed with seizures at a young age, he never let any circumstance become a shortcoming.
Daniel lived a life full of successes, including his involvement on the high school swim team in his senior year (although he was more interested in greeting his family in the stands than winning any competition), his graduation from Bremen High School in 2001, and riding his moped to and from work at Walt’s Grocery in Crete. He enjoyed fishing and bike riding, and made many meaningful and personal connections with those he shared his time with.
Daniel’s ability to remain optimistic and confident not only stemmed from his families unwavering love and support, but also from his faith. He was always extremely involved in church – attending Awana events, Vacation Bible School and Sunday School. He loved Jesus with every ounce of his being and was always excited to share Bible verses, pray for friends and strangers alike, and help bring others to know and love Jesus.
Daniel never missed church if he could help it, and would always be dressed respectfully in a suit and matching tie.
He will be immensely missed by all who were blessed to have known him.
Visitation will be held Monday, March 16, 2026, from 3:00 PM until the start of service at 6:00 PM at Valley Baptist Church (255 Rigg Rd. Valparaiso, IN 46383) Pastor Denny Smith and Pastor D. Smith officiating. Burial to follow at 9:30 AM on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, DIRECTLY at Angelcrest Cemetery (180 E 600 N, Valparaiso, IN 46383)
For information, please call 219-736-5840.
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Praying for God’s grace and comfort for your family.
I am so thankful for Daniel and his impact on my life. I will always cherish his love for Jesus and how he was never ashamed of the Gospel!
Daniel was always an amazing young man and made a difference in many lives at STBT
💔