Obituary of Daniel Patrick Claphan

Daniel Patrick Claphan was born on Sunday, June 25, 1944 in Detroit, Michigan. He was one of seven children born from the union of the late Jennings and the late Mary (Economo) Claphan. Daniel attended school in the Detroit Public School system. After high school, Daniel went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Navy. Daniel married the love of his life, the former Eleanor Modovsky on April 7, 1973 in Plymouth, Michigan. Together, they made their home and raised their four children in Dundee, Michigan. Shortly after taking retirement from Ford Motor Company, after thirty-one years, the couple relocated to Florida for a few years. Daniel was an interesting, well rounded man. He enjoyed history, science and classic cars. Daniel spent much of his free time watching TV shows such as Discovery and the History Channel. He enjoyed watching eighties comedies and old westerns. Daniel had an ear for Motown music and would listen to it often. He enjoyed trying his luck at the casino and spending sunny days out fishing. Daniel Patrick Claphan, age 72, of Rockwood, passed away at 9:54 PM on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at Henry Ford Hospital in Wyandotte. In addition to his parents, he was preceded by his brothers: William, Charles, Donald, Raymond and Michael Claphan; and twin grandchildren: Max and Helena Rose. To cherish his memory, Daniel leaves his loving wife of nearly forty-four years: Eleanor Helene (Modovsky) Claphan of Rockwood; son: James (Danielle) Claphan of Monroe; daughters: Jennifer (Michelle Dawson) Claphan of Westland, Kris (Anamarie Catarelli) Claphan of Brooklyn, New York, Kathleen “Kat” Claphan of Auburn Hills; a sister: Cheryl Hensley of Monroe; and grandchildren: Allissa Claphan, Justin Claphan, Ashlee Claphan, Brycen Dawson, Dragon Claphan and Scarlett Catarelli. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 6:00pm on Wednesday, March 15, 2017 at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan (734)384-5185. Friends and family will be encouraged to share memories during an open mic following at 6:00pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the choice of the family. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.