Band of Brothers

On Aug. 17, 2017, our son, Dan Arendas ’86, was diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic cancer. Dan fought a valiant fight, fending off death five times when hospitalized for the month of September. In mid-October, five of Dan’s baseball teammates came to visit and encourage him. They brought with them a binder filled with encouraging letters from team members and a 40-question trivia test recalling memorable incidents, usually involving iconic Coach Tom O’Connell. Dan got all the answers correct.

Dan was overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from his teammates, never suspecting the high regard and affection they harbored for him. Our son was a humble man who never told his parents when he was named an All-American. Dan loved Princeton and surprised his teammates at Reunions by conducting campus tours describing historical events and buildings.

On Dec. 11, Dan peacefully passed away into the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. At the celebration of Dan’s life on Dec. 17, 15 members of the baseball team gathered to honor Dan’s memory, forming a phalanx in front of the church, reminiscent of the many times they had lined up along the foul lines for the customary pregame rituals. They represented the very best of Princeton loyalty, honor, and deep bonds of affection formed on playing fields.

On behalf of Dan’s wife, Christie, and his two sons, Kyle and Brady, we want to express our sincere appreciation to all the team members for honoring Dan. They are a band of brothers, true sons of Princeton.