Obituary of Daniel P. Bryner

Daniel Paul Bryner died on September 26, 2016 after a long accomplished life and a brave battle with Down Syndrome related dementia. Daniel was the cherished son of Helen M. and Charles A. Bryner, beloved brother of Michael Bryner (Thelma) of Midlothian, VA and James Bryner (Karen) of Lake Saint Louis, MO, uncle and proud Godfather of Emily Bryner Harrison (Brent) of Chesterfield, VA, loving uncle of Jeff Bryner (Melissa), Portland, Oregon, Scott Bryner, Los Angeles, CA and Sarah Bryner, Midlothian, VA and best of friends with Brian Menscher of Wentzville, MO. He was preceded in death by his father Charles A. Bryner and sisters-in-law Donna Bryner (James) and Lorraine Bryner (Michael). Daniel was born October 4, 1959 and grew up in Jamestown, NY. He loved all sports including swimming, bowling, alpine skiing and roller skating. He especially enjoyed being a roller hockey goalie and catcher in softball. Dan participated in Special Olympics for over 25 years at the local, state, national and international level. He won over 175 Special Olympic medals in seven sports, including a gold medal in Artistic Pairs Roller Skating at the 1995 International Special Olympic Games held at Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut. Dan was named the New York State Special Olympic Male Athlete of the Year in 1997. "This honor goes to the athlete who best exemplifies the spirit of Special Olympics by training and competing at various levels, maximizing athletic potential, and by demonstrating good sportsmanship." He received the award from then New York Governor Mario Cuomo. Daniel moved to O'Fallon, MO in 2000 with his parents. He continued his involvement with sports through Special Olympics and Community Living's Personal Enrichment Program. Dan loved working at Boone Center, Inc. until his retirement in 2006. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church of Dardenne where he enjoyed being a Sunday Mass Greeter. Dan was a gregarious soul with a big heart, a strong faith, and a great sense of humor. He displayed prodigious sports related knowledge including personalities, teams and records. When asked, he would willingly offer his predictions of who would win the Super Bowl. Dan could beat almost anyone in arm wrestling and air hockey. Through his personality, his zest for life, and his accomplishments, Dan taught many that perceived handicaps are not a barrier to success nor a measure of one's worth. With the gracious help of many in New York and in Missouri who will recognize their contribution, Dan realized more of his potential in life than most. The family is ever grateful for the love and care of all who were a part of Dan's amazing life. Special recognition and heartfelt thanks is given to Judy Naeger, Daniel's Developmental Disabilities Resource Board Case Manager for her amazing support and guidance which enabled Daniel to access the agency services that enhanced and enriched his life. The family extends a special note of appreciation and gratitude to the health care professionals with Cooperative Health Care and Community Choice who attended Dan these past years with special love, affection and excellent care. We are especially grateful for and indebted to the Cooperative Heath Care Hospice Team who successfully guided Dan and family through these last days. A Mass of the Resurrection celebrated October 5 2016, in Prairie, MO. Friends will be received from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday in the Lind Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday in Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made to Community Living Inc., 1040 St Peters Howell Rd., St. Peters, MO (Personal Enrichment Program), Boone Center, Inc., 200 Trade Center Dr., St. Peters, MO or Special Olympics in any location.