Dan "Peco" Merz, age 63, of Twin Valley, MN, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, June 24, 2025.

Dan Robert Merz was born on May 2, 1962, in Salem, IL, to William and Frances (Kraft) Merz. In 1963, the Merz family relocated to Detroit Lakes, MN, where Dan spent his childhood and attended school. It was during these early years that he received the nickname "Peco" from his siblings—a name that would affectionately stick with him throughout his life.

After high school, Peco attended Minnesota State Community and Technical College in Wadena, MN, where he studied cable television and electronics. He later moved to Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and worked in various electronics-related jobs before discovering his true passion in house painting. He launched his own business, Finishing Touch Painting, which flourished for several years.

Peco eventually moved to Georgia and then California before returning to his Minnesota roots in 2010. He resumed painting and once again started his own business, focusing on condos, apartments, and homes throughout the Fargo-Moorhead area. In the mid-2010s, he settled just outside of Twin Valley, where he continued to live and work until his passing.

Dan had many hobbies and interests that brought him joy. He enjoyed collecting RC cars and had a real talent in the kitchen. In his younger years, he was an accomplished pool player, winning several trophies in tournament play. While living in Florida, he loved spending time on the water jet skiing. He had a remarkable talent for horticulture and took great pride in cultivating plants—a passion he approached with care and intention. Peco also recently taught himself to play the drums and was a dedicated self-learner in many aspects of his life—never afraid to dive into something new and figure it out on his own. Though he lived a quiet and private life, Peco had a warm sense of humor and deeply valued time with his family and close friends. His presence, laughter, and stories will be greatly missed.

Dan is survived by his siblings: Mary (Al Max) Merz, Joseph Merz, Laurie (Mark) Starling, and Betty Merz; nieces and nephews: Matt Severson, Emily Severson, and Lindsey York; great-nieces and nephews: Malakai, Norah, and Iggy; and other beloved family and friends.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, William and Frances Merz.

No services will be held at this time.