Dane Joseph Van Ells

Dane Joseph Van Ells, of Westphalia, died peacefully surrounded by his family on April 5, 2024 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Dane was born January 9, 1997 and is one of six children to Joseph and Chasidy (Cherpes) Van Ells. He was a 2016 graduate of Pewamo - Westphalia High School and a graduate of the 135th Michigan State Police Trooper Recruit School. He married his wife Baylee on May 8, 2020 and together began raising a family in Fowler, MI. 

Dane adored his daughter, Tatum, his wife, Baylee and the life that they created together. His family was his number one priority. 

Dane was the definition of strength, courage and selflessness. Despite his diagnosis, Dane lived life to the fullest, never complaining of his situation and constantly worrying about the well being of all those around him. His kind smile and contagious laugh would light up a room. He loved sports, hunting and spending time with his family. He carried a strong trust and faith in God and his journey was an inspiration to all those around him. 

Dane is survived by the love of his life, Baylee (Smith) Van Ells; daughter Tatum Van Ells; parents Joseph and Chasidy (Cherpes) Van Ells; siblings Keisha, Dawson, Cierra, Steven and Jayce; Grandparents Randy and Peggy Cherpes; In-laws Jerome and Kimberlee Smith, Brothers and Sister-in-law, Justin (Taylor), Jerrad (Olivia), Tyler (Anna), Cassidee and many Aunt, Uncles, Cousins and Friends. He is preceded in death by his grandparents Richard and Rosie Van Ells, Cousins, Conner Whitford and Payton Cherpes, and friends Nicholas Risher and Roderick Cross Jr.

The Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 13, 2024 at the Pewamo-Westphalia High School Fieldhouse, 5101 Clintonia Road, Westphalia.

The family will receive friends from 3:00-8:00 p.m. both Thursday and Friday at the St. Mary's Funeral Chapel, 210 N. Westphalia Street, Westphalia. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family (a fund for Tatum will be established) in memory of Dane. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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