Daniel "Boone" Schwark

Daniel “Boone” Schwark, age 55, of rural Hazel Green, WI, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at MercyOne Hospital in Dubuque, IA.

He was born in Dubuque, IA., the son of Bryan and Jane (Walker) Schwark. Boone grew up in Platteville, WI, and was a graduate of Platteville High School. Following high school, he began his working career as a cook at the Garden Gate in Platteville and later at Gadzook’s, where he met the love of his life, Penny Larson. The couple was united in marriage on June 14, 2008, at Oak Hill Weddings in Apple River, IL.

Together, Boone and Penny opened Boone’s Place in Galena, IL, which they proudly operated from 1994 until its closing in 2011. Boone was known for his strong work ethic, loyalty, and the friendships he formed throughout his life.

In his free time, Boone enjoyed hunting waterfowl and deer, but above all else, he loved fishing- especially chasing Muskie with his best friend Pete. He was a good friend who could always be depended upon and was well known for his quick wit and “Don Rickles” sense of humor, which brought laughter to those around him.

Boone is survived by his wife, Penny Schwark, at home; his father, Bryan Schwark; his sister, Suzanne (Russ) Dudan of Milwaukee, WI; his brother-in-law, Mark Schoenfeldt of Milwaukee, WI; his nieces and nephews, Emily and Matthew Schoenfeldt, and Maddie and Max Dudan; and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Jane Schwark and one sister Debbie Schoenfeldt.

A funeral service will be held Friday, January 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Erickson Funeral Home, 508 Main Street, Darlington, WI, with Rev. Nick McElrath of First Baptist Church in Darlington officiating. Burial will follow at West Wiota Cemetery. A visitation will be held Friday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.