Danny Martin Sad

We are deeply saddened to announce that Danny Martin “Dan” Sad, age 61, of Charlestown, Indiana, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Monday, April 28, 2025.

Born on September 25, 1963, Dan was the beloved son of the late Halsey Earl and Pauline Gertrude Sad. A 1981 graduate of Jamestown High School in North Dakota, Dan pursued a life defined by service, scholarship, and devotion to family. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Biology from Moorhead State University in Minnesota, and it was during this chapter of his life that he began to follow his calling to serve his country.

Dan met his wife, Amy Sad, in Key West, Florida—a partnership that would become the cornerstone of his life. Ever driven and intellectually curious, Dan earned a Master’s degree in National Defense and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. He went on to serve with distinction as a fighter pilot in the United States Navy. In 2002, Dan transitioned to the United States Air Force, where he continued to excel in leadership roles. His military career, marked by discipline, courage, and a commitment to excellence, spanned decades and culminated in his retirement in November 2013. Following his retirement, Dan and his family settled in Indiana.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dan was a devoted husband, father, friend, coach, and mentor. His retirement years were spent doing what he loved most—with the people he loved most. Whether it was sharing his love of music, cheering from the sidelines, or guiding his children with quiet wisdom, Dan filled his days with joy, purpose, and a deep commitment to family. To know Dan was to be inspired by his humility, compassion, and integrity.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Halsey and Pauline Sad.

He is survived by his loving wife, Amy Sad; his children, Isabella, Connor, and Sophia Sad, all of Charlestown, Indiana; his brothers, Harold Sad of Jamestown, North Dakota, and Mark (Sheryl) Sad of San Angelo, Texas; and numerous extended family members residing in Indiana, Missouri, North Dakota, Ohio, and Texas.

A celebration of Dan’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Grayson Funeral Home in Charlestown, Indiana. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Following the graveside service, all are invited to join the family for a gathering and refreshments at the Clark County 4-H Center Food Stand Building located at 9608 IN 62, Charlestown, IN 47111