Daniel James Elsener, 47, Indianapolis, passed away peacefully February 22, 2024, after a lengthy and courageous battle with a rare autoimmune disease. Dan was born December 16, 1976, in Lincoln, Nebraska, to Daniel J. and Elizabeth (Waite) Elsener.  

The Elsener Family moved to Indianapolis in 1992, when Dan was a sophomore in high school.  He became a student at Roncalli High School and graduated in 1995. It was there that Dan met his future bride, Rebecca Koehler. The two fell in love and married on June 25, 2000. Three children were born from this union, Isabel, Ava, and Daniel Charles. Following high school, Dan proudly served in active duty with the United States Marine Corps. Following his discharge, he continued to serve periodically as a reserve; Dan was always proud of his service to his country. Dan lived a life of service to others.
 
A natural people person, Dan had a huge heart, a calming demeanor that made his career as a paramedic a wonderful fit. He also attended nursing school that leant itself to his interest in helping people. He later obtained his M.B.A. and got into various business enterprises. Perhaps most important in Dan’s life was his ability to cook – he loved food and serving wonderful meals to his family and friends. Just prior to his illness, he had purchased a food trailer and had big plans to create a successful business. With Dan’s passion for food, it was inevitably to be a huge success.  

Dan was a huge outdoorsman, enjoying fishing, hunting, and always remaining loyal to his home state of Nebraska. His children could tell it best: We all know my dad was funny, he never failed to make anyone laugh. Our door was always open, he welcomed anyone in, and always had an extravagant meal waiting for them. He loved music, especially country music. He loved hunting and fishing, cooking, singing funny songs in the kitchen, supporting us in everything we do, and we can’t forget the Nebraska Huskers. He was always the guy to talk to strangers in public, being friendly to anyone he met.