The Shadow
Dr. Daniel Wayne Metzler, 69, of Mount Crawford, Virginia passed away on Monday, February 20, 2023, surrounded by family in his home.
Dan was born on March 4, 1953, in Chicago, IL to the late Dr. David G. Metzler and Doris Kesler Metzler. He received his undergraduate degree from Bridgewater College where he was a standout track athlete. In 1975, he set the record for outdoor pole-vaulting at Bridgewater College previously held by Olympic Champion Bob Richards, a record that stands today. He received his doctorate of philosophy from Emory University where he met his first wife with whom he shared four children.
Dan was fortunate to find love again with his beloved wife, Gwendolyn Metzler, with whom he enjoyed many happy years. He co-founded Metzler Brothers Contractors with his late brother, Burton Metzler, which proudly served the Valley for 30 years. He was a selfless father who nurtured the individual curiosities of each of his kids. Dan had a wonderful sense of humor and modeled true patience and forgiveness. His family will forever cherish memories of his warm smile and gentle spirit.
Dan Metzler is survived by his wife, Gwendolyn Metzler; children, David Metzler and wife Brooke, of Bridgewater, Dr. Genita Nolan and husband Tatum, of Bellingham, WA, Joey Metzler and wife Allison, of Bridgewater, Clara Metzler and husband Evan Bullard, of Mt. Solon; siblings, Steve Metzler and wife Karen, sister-in-law Diane Metzler, Laurel Byler, Suzanne Peterson and husband David; grandchildren, Mikayla Laura Metzler, Cedar Daniel Nolan, Lily Clara Nolan, Josie Jean Metzler, Sloane Lea Metzler; and grandpup, Ginger Metzler Bullard.
In addition to his father and brother, Dan was preceded in death by his former wife Martha Guadalupe Garibay-Metzler, brother-in-law Joe Byler, and his mother’s second husband, Dale Ulrich.
A memorial service celebrating Dan’s life will be held on Sunday, February 26, 2023, at 3 pm at the Bridgewater Church of the Brethren with Rev. Jeff Carr officiating. A reception will follow at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Massanutten Regional Library or the Blue Ridge Children’s Museum in honor of Dan’s lifelong curiosity and love of reading. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting johnsonfs.com.
Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.
