Daniel E Hodgkins

Daniel Hodgkins suddenly passed away on May 23, 2019. His heart, boundless with love of his community and advocacy for those with health care needs, stopped beating after years of unending concern for those less fortunate. Dan was dedicated to healthy communities and was instrumental in bringing in over $8 million dollars in grants to help make Indianapolis a more healthy, vibrant and livable place. Although Dan was admired for his work in the community, his true love was his family and friends. 

The indomitable Daniel Emmett Hodgkins was born on June 3, 1955 in Tucson Arizona. He was the son of Betty Powers Hodgkins of Lee, Massachusetts. He attended schools in Lee and graduated from the University of Arizona with a Master’s Degree in Education. In Arizona, Dan met and married the love of his life, Nancy Collins Hodgkins. He is survived by his wife Nancy, sons Colin and Brandon, daughter Caroline and her husband Joshua Shanas. He is also survived by his mother Betty, brother Michael, his most handsome brother Christopher and his sister Janet Burch.

Dan was a connoisseur of all things good, great, delicious and fun. His baking was a dream come true—the best you have ever tasted. Dan loved a nice Sapphire Gin gimlet, fine wine, and loud music. He immensely enjoyed surprising his family and friends with a care package of baked goods; favorites like his cayenne pepper ginger snap cookies. After many family get-togethers and celebrations, it was Dan’s laugh and voice that you could hear throughout the room. He honored his family and friends with good times and an incredibly giving spirit.

Dan had a rewarding career. In his early years he helped bring Hospice to communities to provide compassionate care to those at the end of their lives. Later he began his love affair with the Indianapolis community.  He served as Vice President of Community Benefit for the Community Health Network for twenty-seven years. He was instrumental in creating the Domestic Violence Network in Indianapolis and The Jane Pauley Community Health Center.  He was especially proud his work to expand health clinics in local schools to increase access to healthcare in Warren Township, Indianapolis Public Schools, and several charter schools. In addition, Dan worked to improve the quality of life of the Eastside Community and lead the effort to beautify the area. He helped start The Cupboard Food Pantry of Lawrence and helped establish the annual Turn Festival at The Paramount School of Excellence. Dan served many Boards over the years including The Health Foundation of Greater Indianapolis, Learning Well, The Felege Hiywot Center, and Binford Redevelopment & Growth.

Dan was recognized with many awards for his work in the community including the Healthy Communities Institute (HCI) National Achievement Award. His work in the community was notable and significant but his legacy was love, laughter, kind words of encouragement and friendship that will never be forgotten.  Some people’s souls shine so bright that even their shadows bathe us in light.  Dan was one of those souls.

A funeral service for Dan will take place Wednesday May 29th at 3pm at Trinity Episcopal Church, 3243 N. Meridian Street in Indianapolis. A reception will follow from 4-6pm at the Glossbrenner Mansion, 3202 N. Meridian Street.

Friends are encouraged to donate to a charity of your choice and listen to your favorite music, share a dinner with family and raise a toast to friends here and gone. Hug those close to you as no one is promised tomorrow.

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