In Loving Memory of Daniel Dean Surmaceviz

March 8, 1959 – June 2, 2026

The music has fallen quiet, and the world is a little less bright. On the morning of Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 5:12 AM, Daniel Dean Surmaceviz, 67, passed away at Salem Regional Medical Center.

Born in Salem, Ohio on March 8, 1959, Dan was a lifelong resident of the area. He was the son of the late Frank Bernard Surmaceviz and Shirley Ann (Miller) Surmaceviz-Steves. After graduating from Salem High School in 1977, Dan brought his strong work ethic to the community, working early on at Salem Label and later at Quaker City Castings.

But to truly know Dan was to know that music was his life, his language, and his heartbeat. He didn't just listen to music; he lived it. A gifted guitar player, Dan poured his soul into the strings and found endless joy in collecting guitars, amplifiers, and music memorabilia.

For 39 years, Dan shared this deep passion with the absolute love of his life, his wife, Judith Ann (Raidel) Surmaceviz, whom he married on May 23, 1987. Together, they built a life centered around the things they loved most. They spent years traveling to shows, catching the magic of live music together. That shared devotion turned into a community venture when they started and ran their unique store, “Uncle Stumpy’s Attic.”

Dan was also known for his brilliant technical mind and ear for perfection. He frequently lent his specialized expertise as a freelance amplifier technician to the business “Priced to Sell,” helping others keep the music alive by restoring the gear he understood so well.

Dan leaves behind a legacy of love in his adored wife, Judy; his daughter, Jessica LeeAnn McIntosh; and his beloved four-legged “kids,” his cats Lucy, Pixie, Junior, and Ralph, who will miss his presence deeply.

In addition to his parents, Dan was preceded in death by his brother, Richard.

Dan lived his life like a great song—vibrant, authentic, and beautifully amplified. Though he is gone, the echoes of his passion, his independent spirit, and his love will ring out in the hearts of those who cared for him forever.