Dr. Daniel Joseph Swartling

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL-Dr. Daniel Joseph Swartling, was born on September 3, 1960, in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, and passed away peacefully on November 21 2024, at the NHC of Cookeville. He leaves behind a legacy shaped by a profound passion for chemistry, a dedication to education, and a spirit deeply rooted in his Christian faith.

Dan's educational journey began early in life, ignited by a fascination with chemistry that took hold when he received his first chemistry set at the age of twelve. He immersed himself in the subject, conducting chemical demonstrations as early as seventh grade. He graduated from Winona High School in 1978 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from Winona State University in 1985. His pursuit of knowledge continued at the University of North Dakota, where he was awarded a PhD in chemistry in 1989.

His professional career commenced as a research assistant in the department of medicinal chemistry and pharmacognosy at Purdue University from 1989-1990. Following this, he served as a research associate at the Ben May Institute for Cancer Research at the University of Chicago from 1990 to 1992. Dan was honored to be a Camille and Henry Dreyfus fellow at Southern Methodist University from 1992 to 1994. In August 1994, he joined the faculty of Tennessee Tech University, where he devoted his career to education and mentorship. Renowned for his teaching and service, he was awarded two of Tennessee Tech's highest honors, one for outstanding faculty in teaching and one for professional service. He taught a variety of courses including General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Environmental Organic Chemistry, inspiring countless students along the way.

Beyond academia, Dan was a passionate supporter of TTU Sports, particularly enthusiastic about women's soccer, basketball, and volleyball, alongside men's basketball, baseball, and football. His vibrant personality earned him multiple nicknames, reflecting his diverse interests and playful spirit: Santa Dan, Dan the Motorcycle Man, Dan the Botanist-especially fond of orchids and miniature plants-Dan the Glass Blower, Rebel Dr. Dan, Dan the Balloon Artist, Jewelry Maker, and Mad Man Dr. Dan.

Dan was also known for founding the Faith Riders Motorcycle Club, merging his love for riding with his faith. His commitment to the community was demonstrated through his membership in several prestigious organizations, including the American Chemical Society, the American Society of Biochemists and Molecular Biologists, the Tennessee Academy of Science (where he served formerly as President), the International Solar Energy Society, the American Scientific Glassblowers Society, and the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas.

He is survived by his beloved mother, Jean Trester; his siblings, Brian Swartling (Paula Hangel) and Pam Todd (Robert); and several cherished nieces and nephews. Dan was preceded in death by his father, Ronald James Swartling.

A visitation in honor of Dan will be held on Sunday December 8, from 1-2pm, followed by a memorial service celebrating his life starting at 2pm at the Stonecipher Lecture Hall in the Lab Science Commons at Tennessee Tech University, located at 803 Stadium Drive, Cookeville, TN.

In lieu of or in addition to flowers, a memorial scholarship fund is being established at Tennessee Tech University in Dan’s name, to help fund the education of future Chemistry majors. If you would like to contribute to the fund, you can send checks to: Daniel J. Swartling Memorial Scholarship Fund Tennessee Tech Foundation, P.O. Box 1915, Cookeville, TN 38505. Please make checks payable to the Tennessee Tech Foundation with a note in the memo line that it is in memory of Daniel Swartling.

Dr. Dan Joseph Swartling's legacy will continue through the lives he touched, the lessons he imparted, and the love he shared with family, friends, and students alike. He will be profoundly missed and fondly remembered.

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.