Daniel E. Pringle, the founder of a company that produced and sold solar energy systems, passed away on February 26, 2025, at the age of 74.
Known for his adventurous spirit, Dan was a skilled sailor, avid skier, expert scuba diver, hang glider, airplane pilot, and race car driver.
Born on December 26, 1950, in Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, Dan was the son of the late Russell J. "Skip" and Carolyn Pringle. He grew up in Cortland, New York, and graduated from Cortland High School in 1968. Dan went on to attend Colorado State University in Fort Collins, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Later, he became the president and owner of Spiral Designs in Boulder, where he built solar energy systems. His work in the company allowed him to develop a wide range of skills in manufacturing, business and product development, sales management, and contract management.
After college, Dan, an expert skier, moved to Aspen, Colorado, where he could indulge his passion for skiing.
While there, he also worked as the head chef at the Aspen Mine Company restaurant.
His culinary skills and love for skiing later took him to Crested Butte. He has skied various resorts across North America, even participating in helicopter skiing in Northwest Canada.
Dan's adventurous spirit extended beyond skiing; in the 1970s, he began hang-gliding and even built one of his own gliders. He also became a licensed fixed-wing airplane pilot, racing his Pantera and Porsche sports cars, and riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle.
Dan was also an accomplished sailor, participating in regattas and joining many ocean passages with friends and family, including special trips with his father. His love for the water led him to become a certified scuba diver, where he enjoyed treasure hunting for historical shipwrecks. When he wasn't exploring the great outdoors, Dan had a remarkable talent for fixing and repairing almost anything.
Dan is survived by his two siblings, David (Francie) Pringle and Kathy Pringle of Skaneateles, New York, along with five nieces and nephews: Collins (Emily) Pringle of Teton Valley, Idaho; Tassie (Dror) Pringle of Portland, Oregon; Russell Burkhardt of Naples, Idaho; Abby Burkhardt of Syracuse, New York; and LB Burkhardt of Skaneateles. He is also survived by a great niece and nephews and further survived by other relatives and friends.
Dan's spirited life, filled with incredible adventures, has left behind many lasting stories that will continue to inspire all who knew him. His family and friends will gather in Boulder in July 2025 to celebrate his life.