Daniel M. Junius, 81, of Western Springs, formerly of Oak Park and Chicago, died peacefully at home, beloved husband of Anna May, nee Stack, for 56 years; loving father of Marty (Denny), Maura, Dan (Betsy), Paul (Ann), Susan Lance and Jody (Tom) Suttie; devoted grandfather of 14; fond brother of Paul (Evelyn), Dorothy (late Charles) Horn, Rosemary (Al) Dransoff, Ron (Sylvia), the late Rev. B.C. Junius, O.M.I. and the late John (Geraldine); fond uncle of many. A World War II Veteran of the Army Air Corps, Dan entered the insurance industry in claims. He worked in the fledgling high risk auto insurance industry and became known for his effectiveness in court cases. he became a part of the disaster insurance claims team known as the Blue Angels. In 1980 Junius joined the law firm of Wildman, Harold, Allen and Dixon to manage their Safe Step Ladder self-insurance program. He became an acknowledged expert on ladder construction and function. His success in developing the strategies for the defense of the ladder manufacturers resulted in a string of defense verdicts for the program. He continued his work in ladder product liability as the owner of Risk Retention Services, Inc. While the leadership of the company has passed to his son, Paul, Dan continued to work on a variety of cases. A lifelong and fervent Catholic, Dan graduated from Our Lady Help of Christians School and St. Mel’s High School. He attained the Fourth Degree of the Knights of Columbus. His greatest joy rested in his wife and family. He delighted in the successes of his children and the growing accomplishments of his grandchildren. His strength, compassion and love will be sorely missed. Visitation 3 to 9 p.m. Thursday at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside. Prayers 9:15 a.m. Friday from the funeral home to St. John of the Cross Church, Western Springs, for Mass at 9:45 a.m. Interment Mount Carmel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to San Miguel School, Attn: Gary Comer Campus, 1949 W. 48th St., Chicago, IL 60609 appreciated. Funeral home phone, 708-352-6500 .
