Daniel Lee Palen, 76, of Springfield, Missouri passed away on Saturday, March 30th, 2013. He was married to Sue Palen on October 18th, 1957. Dan graduated from Southwest Missouri State University in 1957 and was a standout musician and golfer. He was in the 135th Division National Guard Band for eight years. Dan was director of bands at: Republic High, Jarrett Junior High, Parkview High and finally Southwest Missouri State University. Dan later went on to cofound Palen Music Center with his brother Bill in 1963 when they purchased Will James Music Service that began in 1911. Dan loved golf, music, and he loved to laugh- but most of all, Dan loved his family. He was preceded in death by his father, William Palen; his mother, Mary Palen; and his daughter Susan Elizabeth Palen. He is survived by his wife, Sue Palen; his brother Bill Palen; his sons: Brett, Dan and Brad; his daughters-in-law, Shelly, Lisa and Cindy; and his grandchildren: Jessica, Alec, Breanna, Peyton, Beau, Josiah, Megan, Hadasa, Barrett and Clay.