Dan Childers, 76, of The Colony, passed away Thursday, August 4, 2016 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Born Daniel Paul Childers, July 16, 1940 in Dallas, Texas, he was the son of Rufus Lake Childers and Evelyn Jewel Broyles Childers. During his years of childhood he attended school in Irving until his family moved to England where he finished high school. He returned to the U.S. after his two years and attended college for one year. During his time abroad however, he courted his future wife, Jerry Ellen Maynard of Irving, through letters and cards. He even sent her engagement ring via mail from his heart in England. As soon as he returned, their courtship took flight and they were married within a month. They lived in Irving throughout their first years of marriage, building a family of three kids and countless memories. Former owner of his own roofing company, he spent 48 years in the plumbing business and was a plumbing supply and water well supply manufacturing representative. On his off time, Dan enjoyed the simple things in life. Fishing, hunting, playing cards with his family, traveling, and gambling were all activities that filled his days when he wasnt working. Making day trips with his soul mate to Galveston for lunch were among his favorite hobbies. He also was a member of the Bass Club of The West, where fishing once a month was promised, rain or shine. When he wasnt fishing with the club, he was on the boat with his brother, usually drinking a beer and reminiscing on the good ol days. Friday night was always poker night with his wife and kids. Most of those night were spent leaving late and laughing the entire time. He spent countless Christmases and birthdays surrounded by family and friends. Through his last years of life, he spent time with his family and enjoyed sitting on his chair, watching his shows, and eating the best meal(s) he ever had every day. Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Jerry Ellen of The Colony; son, Scott Childers and wife Kathy of Little Elm; daughters, Kim Hensley and husband Steve of The Colony and Amy Farrell and husband Tony of Cotulla, Texas; brothers Don Childers and wife Virginia of Irving and David Childers of Arkansas; brother-in-law, Don Maynard and wife Mitzi of Lewisville, Texas; a sister Nancy Madison of Tennessee; grandchildren, Joshua Childers, Jessie Lease, Kristina Russell and husband Wes, and Kamy Lanham; and five great grandchildren; Marshall, Aiden, Avery, Kai, and Jayde. The family received friends on Sunday, August 7, 2016 at Donnellys Colonial Funeral Home. The funeral service was held on Tuesday, August 9, also at the funeral home chapel.