Hi everyone. My name is Stephanie and I work for Black Market Bakery downtown Crystal Lake, Rachel and Dan’s passion project.

As most of you are aware, we lost Dan suddenly on Sunday, February 15th. This heartbreaking reality leaves Rachel with a beautiful family to raise, a loyal pup to care for, a house to tend to and 2 businesses to run (Black Market Bakery & Cafe Olympic), all on her own. Her support group is strong and fierce but she lost the one person that made it all worth it.

Throughout her ownership at the diner (and now the bakery), Rachel has given her heart to the community through donations, fundraisers, smiles, laughter, camaraderie, and a genuine love for creating a family-like experience to everyone who walks through the doors.

Rachel works tirelessly to show up for her family, her businesses, her staff, and her community. I am hoping we can show up for her and relieve some of the financial burden that is expected during such unimaginable circumstances. The money raised for Rachel will hopefully create a secure financial safety net that she can rely on.

Dan was everything to Rachel. Their love was pure, passionate and strong. Nature was their safe space. Dan grew gardens and planted fruit trees for Rachel. He was her handyman and shoulder to lean on. He was a loving father, brother, uncle and son. Dan was recently recognized for his 15 year anniversary as a IBEW Local 196 journeyman lineman. The pride he took in his work showed in everything he did. He greeted everyone with the same warm, bright smile and a sparkle in his eyes. I don’t think I ever saw Dan without a smile on his face. He was easy to talk to, easy to trust, easy to confide in and easy to love. He will be deeply missed by all those that were blessed to know him.

Thank you for reading and thank you for your support and generosity in whatever way it is offered. If you cannot make a donation, consider visiting the diner or bakery for you next meal or sweet treat. Hug your loved ones. Smile at strangers. Find peace in nature. Do what makes you happy. That is how we can honor Dan.

Here is the link to Dan’s obituary: https://www.davenportfamily.com/obituaries/dan-vonau