Daniel E. Chrisman, Sr.

Daniel E. Chrisman “Dan” Sr. completed his life on Monday, June 23, 2025 at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital after a short illness. The Chrisman family is very grateful to the staff at UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital for the fine medical care and kindness shown to Dan during his stay.

Dan was born in Auburn, NY to George and Leola (Zirbel) Chrisman on May 26, 1937. His family relocated to Mohawk, NY and as a young boy he developed a passion for sports, especially football and baseball. Locally, he is remembered for his outstanding play against Norwich in the old Iroquois football league in the early 1950’s.

Dan was a 1955 graduate from Mohawk High School, attended Williams College and then transferred to SUNY Cortland. There he received his BS in Physical Education in 1960 and his Masters in Physical Education and School Administration in 1968. Dan’s teaching and coaching career began in Perry, NY from 1960-1964 where he met his bride-to-be, Donna Stillinger. Donna was completing her special education student teaching requirement from SUNY Geneseo. They were married on December 22, 1963.

The Chrisman’s then moved to the Syracuse area. There, Dan continued teaching physical education and coaching all sports in Liverpool, NY and Solvay, NY before settling in Norwich, NY in 1974. Dan was a physical education teacher, football coach and Athletic Director from 1974-1992 when he retired. He will be remembered professionally for his love of sports and his genuine concern for student athletes.

Dan leaves his wife of 61 years, Donna and their children – Dan Jr., Terri, Wendy, and Barry (Susan). The adult grandchildren have been a source of pride and much love-Lynsi Chrisman, Kennedy, Connor, Brody and Delaney Phelan; Zachary, Ethan, and Avery Page; Morgan Crawford, Shelby, and Marcus Benjamin. Dan is also survived by two great grandsons, Hendrix and Beau Benjamin; one great granddaughter, Kinzleigh Jo Bedell; one nephew; three nieces; and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Broad Street United Methodist Church Roof Fund, 74 North Broad Street, Norwich, NY 13815 or to the Norwich Family YMCA, 68-70 North Broad St. Norwich, NY 13815.

Funeral arrangements are with the Wilson Funeral Home, 68 South Broad Street, Norwich, NY. There will be no calling hours. A personal family memorial service will be held. Messages of condolences may be sent directly to family members at 149 Warner Road, Norwich, NY 13815.