Dana M. Herbel
February 1, 1975 ~ September 27, 2025
Dana Michael Herbel, age 50 son of Peggy departed from this earth on September 27, 2025 after a courageous battle against cancer. Dana, affectionately known as 'Ratt' was born in Russell, Kansas on February 1, 1975. He grew up racing around Russell on his bikes and continued to do so on motorcycles as an adult. His love of mechanics grew from an early age with the guidance of Jack Cochran and others.
He was truly a car and motorcycle guy, helping friends with mechanical issues and working at Precision Collision with the Zorn family. Dana loved racing of all types including drag racing. He enjoyed many memorable times with friends in Topeka and at area race strips. He spent time in nature, fishing, boating and country cruising.
Dana also loved drawing, history, collecting, searching auctions, sales and the thrift store for many unique items. He enjoyed cooking and collected various types of pots, pans and kitchen item. Dana will be missed for his wit, humor and his independence.
Dana was always willing to help friends out when needed and join in a gathering, especially if it might involve a Keystone. The support of his friends in the last year and few months of his life battling cancer was appreciated by Dana. He was lovingly cared for in his last few weeks by Susan Shank and Chris Harders in their home, where friends and family visited and under the guidance of Gentiva Hospice, Salina, KS. Dana spoke of his heartache of not being a consistent part in his children and grandchildren’s lives, he felt blessed when they visited him.
Dana was preceded in death by his mother Peggy Herbel. He is survived by his son Zachary Herbel (Nicole) Riverton, KS; daughter Hana Herbel (Joshua Sharp) Ochelata, OK, and youngest son Lucas Herbel (Daphne Hedrick) Springfield, MO. Grandchildren Kaydron, Karson, Kolton, Kannon, Brooklyn, Demetrius, Melody, Heavenly, and Joshua Junior.
A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Chet’s Place, downtown Russell. Cremation was chosen by Dana and in the care of Wulf-Ast Mortuary, Garden Plain, KS. Memorials can be made to Trinity UMC Thrift Store, 3C Rescue and the Russell County Historical Society and mailed to 3899 182nd Street, Russell, KS 67665 or given directly.