Born to a diverse, blue-collar family on the south side of Chicago, Dan’s mother, father, and 5 brothers moved to Rib Lake, Wisconsin when Dan was just 6 years of age.Early Life
Unfortunately, alcoholism took Dan’s father, first in the form of divorce and ultimately by ruining his health. His father died shortly after Dan turned 10.
Dan did not let this sad event dictate his course in life. His mother encouraged him and his brothers to reach out for a better life. With the guidance and support of his mother, teachers, coaches, and his pastor, Dan Maes excelled.
At age 13, he took his first job delivering the daily early morning newspapers before heading off to school. He was Student Council President, Senior Class President, and captain of his football team in addition to many other activities he participated in during high school. Dan went on to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he played football.
He graduated in just 4 years with a BA in Sociology and Criminal Justice. Dan knows that without the financial support provided by his father’s social security death benefits and his VA benefits, graduating with a college degree would be merely a dream. He is sensitive to the fact that government benefits, for the neediest in our society, have their place.
Moving to Colorado
From an early age, Dan knew he wanted to live in Colorado. Motivated only by a desire to live here, Dan moved to Colorado in 1985, after 2 years as a police officer, and with no job. After a month he stumbled into what was destined to be his career - business development.
Career
Dan was able to quickly develop relationships and trust by keeping his word and delivering on his commitments. His natural leadership always led him to management roles and ultimately he earned part of a business through sweat equity. He has never looked back. Dan and his partners sold a telecommunications franchise in 1997. He then started and sold a credit reporting agency between 2005 and 2009 with the goal of public service upon its completion.
Family Life
Dan and Karen have been married for 19 years. He and his wife enjoy their two children of 15 and 7. Dan’s daughter (from his short first marriage) is a 2009 graduate from UNC/Greeley, and is currently working full time on the campaign.
A Note From Karen
On May 23, 1988, I walked into a job interview after being in Denver just one month, the man who interviewed me was Dan Maes. One week later, we enjoyed our first date. Where did we have dinner…? Governor’s Park Cafe! We were married December 1990 in Estes Park - one of our favorite places in Colorado.
After just weeks of dating I saw in Dan something that told me he would do something great in his life. Of course, I didn’t tell him that until recently! That is one of the many reasons I married him. He had those traits a woman looked for in a strong husband and father.
Many ask Dan, “How is your wife with this decision?” I want all of you to know that Dan sat down with us corporately and individually on more than one occasion to make sure we all were on board. Anyone of us had veto power and we all signed on 100%. It was at this time I finally admitted to Dan that I knew he would do this one day.
We are excited to share Dan with Colorado. He so loves this state and wants the best for it as he has always provided for us.
