Dan E. Kirsner

Dan Kirsner, a gifted musician, pastor, and compassionate soul, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2024, at the age of 68. He leaves behind a legacy of music, faith, and service that touched the lives of many.

Born in New York City and adopted at the age of two and a half from an orphanage, Dan’s early years were shaped by both discipline and love. Raised in Elizabeth Town, Crown Point, and Ticonderoga in Essex County, Dan graduated from Ticonderoga High School in 1974. After high school, he attended the Elkins Institute of Broadcasting and later pursued theology at Liberty University, where he became a Pastor.

Dan's childhood was marked by a strict and challenging environment. His mother, focused on his musical development, often insisted he spend long hours practicing indoors, leaving little room for play or leisure. In contrast, his father, a police officer, would sometimes sneak him away from the house, taking him out to ride horses or shooting a gun, providing moments of escape.

After high school, Dan’s career in music took a significant turn when country legend Roger Miller discovered him on a street corner in Tennessee. Miller’s encouragement led to Dan forming a band that would go on to open for iconic country artists such as Johnny Cash, Conway Twitty, Tammy Wynette, and Del Reeves. Dan had the honor of singing at the Grand Ole Opry, a highlight in his early musical career.

At 13, Dan found his Christian faith, a journey that would become a guiding force in his life. Tragically, a devastating car accident claimed the lives of his bandmates, leaving Dan the sole survivor. This near-death experience deepened his faith and solidified his commitment to music and ministry.

Dan, along with his late wife of two decades, had a business where they published music for radio for numerous clients. After his wife’s passing from cancer, Dan questioned whether he would ever make music again, but the pull of his faith and passion for music led him back to songwriting in Ticonderoga. There, he began to merge his love for music and his Christian faith, writing over 100 songs, many of them in the Christian country genre. In 2021, Dan got back in the studio and formed Stockade Records. Dan was the CEO, and set up and recorded numerous musicians, and most recently recorded the two latest CDs with music partner Debra Fish, including Little Bit Stronger and Country Boogie Woogie. Dan loved mixing on his Tascum in the studio. 

Dan’s musical talents were wide-ranging. He was known for his ability to write songs quickly—some of his best compositions came together in less than ten minutes. His song “This Is God’s Place” was awarded "Best Song of the Year" in 2022, and he was later nominated for the *Who’s Who Worldwide* Book for his achievements in leadership and music.

Beyond his music, Dan was deeply committed to serving those in need. He showed great compassion for the underprivileged and could often be found helping others, whether it was providing coats, blankets, or simply lending a listening ear. Dan was a regular volunteer with City Mission and used social media to spread his message of hope, preaching to an online community with his "Preacher’s Corner" sessions—where he offered comfort, prayer, and encouragement to all.

In recent years, Dan formed a musical partnership with his dear friend Debra Fish. Together, they created the Christian duo *Blessings Love* and the *Deb and Dan Show*, which became a source of healing and joy for Dan. Through this collaboration, Dan rediscovered his love for performing and found peace, comfort, and friendship.

Dan’s resilience and strength were evident until the end. In May 2024, he was diagnosed with cancer, but he continued to share his music and message of faith with others, never letting on the suffering he endured. The day before he passed, he sang to his nurses with his characteristic warmth and optimism, saying, “Do what you’ve got to do, and I’m fine with it.” Dan’s life was a testament to kindness, courage, and the power of love.

We invite friends, family, and all those whose lives were touched by Dan’s music and kindness to join us in celebrating his life and legacy. His impact will be felt for generations, and his love of music and faith will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Dan is survived by his loving aunt, cousins, wife and her children, and many dear friends, including Debra Fish, his musical partner. May we all remember Dan for his unwavering kindness, his remarkable talent, and his deep, enduring faith.

A Memorial Visitation will be taking place on Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm, with a Celebration of Life Service to begin at 1:30pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie NY 12205.

*Rest in peace, Dan. You have left us with music, love, and a legacy of light.*

Services will be live-streamed for those who can not attend in person. Tune back for the link on December 1, 2024.