Daniel James Pillow

Daniel James Pillow left this earth in Wichita, Kansas on the evening of April 22, 2023.  We had 49 unforgettable years with him and was born to David and Jean Pillow on August 21, 1973 in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.  
Danny spent the first 17 years of his life in Sturgeon Bay and you’d find him exploring wildlife, building skateboard ramp, playing many sports, listening to music, playing the drums in school/church, playing Atari, swimming at Otumba Beach, and bringing home all sorts of critters.  Family and friends loved being with him especially those who were up for an adventure! He was the most happy, sentimental, easy-going child to raise but never would you want to mistake his kindness for weakness.  He had his fair share of butt whoopings for the neighborhood bully or anybody who messed with his family and friends.  
Dan moved to Wichita, Kansas with his parents and 2 younger sisters in the fall of 1989.  We were welcomed by family while he attended Maize High School.  He spent some time in Wichita discovering his love and passion for tattooing until he followed his family again to Newton, Kansas a few short years later.  It was there when Dan met and married Michelle Johnson.  Years later they divorced but together they had a beautiful baby girl, Bailey Alexandria, in August 1997.
Dan tried his hand in various jobs but his creative and entrepreneurial spirit brought out Dan, Dan The Tattoo Man!!!  He was a pioneer in his field and with opposition from local government he finally opened Body, Ink, & Steel off Kansas Ave. in Newton in 1999.  There he mentored and hired several apprentices during his time in this location.  He also gave back and raised money for several organizations and individuals who were in need.  Maybe you received your first tattoo or piercing from him?  
Dan saw an opportunity in Wichita to grow his brand and opened Idle Hands in Wichita, Kansas in 2012. Again, he flourished in whatever endeavor he pursued and always had big dreams.  He LOVED to entertain with his massive fireworks displays and throw down a mean meal on Sunday Fundays.  He rediscovered his inner child with his former partner, Brooke, and her daughter Jazmin.  Tragedy hit when his best friend died in a motorcycle accident followed by his leg amputation. In Dan-like style, he joked about “Stump, being a Pirate or Lieutenant Dan” to make people feel at ease.  At this time his business burned down BUT like the Phoenix he was, he rose from the ashes and instead opened a bigger and better shop just across the street in the Delano District.  This afforded him the opportunity to hire and launch more artists into national recognition.  As an Inspector for the Kansas Board of Cosmetology, he was able to pass on his knowledge and 20+ years of experience.  He created the Friday the 13th Tattoo trend where he used the proceeds to donate to the Wounded Warrior Project, other organizations, and a dear friend suffering from cancer.  
Dan’s life took another tragic turn when he had to have his second leg amputated on March 19, 2020.  The amputation never healed and neither did his broken heart.  He had many wonderful, lengthy conversations with his family and friends about the love of the Lord and God’s goodness in recent years.  He had a personality like none other and many were benefactors of his time, talent, and generosity. 
He was preceded in death by his father, David Pillow Jr.  Grandfathers David Pillow Sr. and Bill Townsend.  Uncle Greg Townsend.  He is survived by his daughter, Bailey, and honorary daughter Jazmin.  Mother Jean Pillow.  Sisters Tracy Sutherland (husband John) and Katie Steele (husband Tracy).  Nephews Tyler McCray and Isaiah Sutherland.  Nieces Aspen Englen (husband Alex), Raven Durbin (husband Devon), and Areesa Steele.  Grandmothers Billie Pillow and Lee Townsend.  Several aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.  Last but not least his beloved Cane Corso, Titan.  

A memorial service will be held at Bethany Revival Center, 427 W. 21st St N, Wichita on Saturday (May 13th) at 2:00.  

Refreshments to follow with “Open-Mic” sharing from 4:00-5:30.  

A memorial has been established in honor of Dan. Checks may be made out to Jean Pillow c/o Titanz Foundation and may be sent to Broadway Colonial Funeral Home.  120 E. Broadway, Newton, KS 67114.