Jay Decker Obituary

November 3, 1962 - November 13, 2022

Jay Daniel "Dan" Decker passed away on November 13th, 2022 surrounded by his beloved family. He is survived by his wife Debbie (Winston) Decker, daughter Courtney Decker, son Daniel Decker, sisters Debbie Decker Gans (Ron) and Dana Decker Knorr (Patrick) and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Jay and Alice Decker.

Growing up in Wichita, Kansas, Dan attended Wichita Southeast High School where he excelled academically, played football, served as senior class president and built numerous lifelong friendships. He attended the University of Kansas and was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity, graduating with a bachelor's degree in Chemistry in 1985.

Throughout his youth, stories of his kindness as well as hilarious adventures abound and will be shared (as appropriate!) for years to come. He will always be remembered for his indomitable spirit and joy for life, and deep love for his family and friends.

Dan made the most of his scientific background and his people skills by pursuing a successful professional life in medical and life-science sales and corporate leadership. Launching his career in 1985 as a sales representative with Becton Dickenson Corporation, Dan advanced into successive management roles leading to two decades of leadership as Vice President of Sales for Eppendorf North America. Of all Dan's professional achievements, his most lasting impact are the hundreds of careers he nurtured and the many industry leaders who recognize him as their most important, impactful, and cherished colleague, mentor, and friend. Throughout his life, he remained in contact with many of them as he followed their successes and continued to inspire them.

He loved the Kansas City Chiefs, the Kansas Jayhawks and every team his son Daniel and daughter Courtney ever played on. Many of their friends and teammates were blessed by his untiring encouragement and ability to see the best in everyone.

A celebration of Dan's life will be held in Lawrence, Kansas on Saturday, March 11th at 1:00pm at Danforth Chapel on the KU campus. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Blanca's House, an organization that provides much-needed quality medical care to countries and communities throughout Latin America. www.blancashouse.org