On Thursday, February 26, 2026, Daniel R. Masten peacefully passed away at his home in Milford at the age of 81.
Born in Milford on April 22, 1944, Dan was the beloved son of the late Raymond and Edith Masten. A lifelong member of the Milford community, he carried with him a deep sense of loyalty, service, and quiet strength.
Dan graduated from Milford High School in 1962, where he was a proud three-sport athlete, playing football, basketball, and baseball. He went on to attend the University of Delaware, earning his Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture — an education that reflected his strong work ethic and connection to the land.
From a young age, Dan demonstrated determination and character, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout through the Boy Scouts of America — a distinction he carried with pride throughout his life.
He honorably served his country in both the Delaware National Guard and the United States Army, embodying the same sense of duty and commitment that defined him in all areas of life.
Dan devoted his professional life to his family’s business, Masten Lumber & Building Supply Company, where he served as President. Under his leadership, the company remained a trusted and respected cornerstone of the Milford community.
An outdoorsman at heart, Dan was a longtime member of Ducks Unlimited and found joy in duck hunting, bird watching, and walking. He was also an avid golfer and stamp collector. Dan followed the markets closely and was a thoughtful investor, and a devoted Philadelphia Phillies fan who rarely missed a game.
Dan is survived by his loving children: Patricia Masten; Jeffrey Masten and his wife, Melissa; and Bryan Masten. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Trevor, Jacob, and Brooklyn Masten. He is also survived by his sister, Carolyn Humes and her husband, Harry; his brother, A. Robert Masten, MD and his wife, Elizabeth F. Masten, MD; along with extended family and many dear friends.
We want to add a special thanks to Kayla Horne, Carmen Horne, Laurie Westwood, and Betty Graham for taking such wonderful and loving care of Dan Masten the past several years.
Family and friends are gathered at Avenue United Methodist Church, 20 North Church Street, Milford, on Wednesday, March 4th, for a funeral service Interment will follow edat Milford Community Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Dan’s memory may be made to Avenue United Methodist Church, or to God’s Way, 1 North Maple Avenue, Milford, DE 19963, or a donation may be made in honor of his kitty, Violet, at https://bvspca.org/donate/honor-a-life.
