Dan Merrell Riner

Dan Merrell Riner, 75, of Springdale passed away Saturday, September 29, 2018 in Cabot, Arkansas. He was born June 22, 1943 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas to David and Frances Wylie Riner. Dan grew up in Lonoke and Carlisle and graduated from Carlisle High School. He served in the United States Navy. He graduated from Henderson State University and University of Arkansas Medical School in Little Rock. He practiced radiology for more than thirty years in Springdale and Siloam Springs. For the last fifteen years he has been a family practitioner and diagnostic radiologist in Springdale, Des Arc and Cabot. Dan has been described as a "dang genius". He was well loved by his patients and was dedicated in his service to the community. Dan was an avid Razorback fan. He loved cooking especially using his smoker. A grill, a T.V. and a patio made him happy. His other hobbies included boating on Beaver Lake. Soft spoken, Dan was a gentle soul, a good listener and interesting company. He was a dedicated member of the First United Methodist Church of Springdale where he served as President of the Board of Trustees and he was a member of the Springdale Rotary Club. Dan was compassionate whether working with patients, helping friends or spending time with family. He will be remembered for his welcoming nature. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Suzanne Riner; two sons, Matthew Riner and Thomas Riner, and one granddaughter, Alexis Riner. He is survived by his wife, Gay Riner of the home. He was the proud father of four children, Martha Bass and husband Keith of Woodbridge, Va. and Elizabeth Splinter and husband Don of Springdale, Brandon Rinnert of Phoenix, Ariz. and Katy Collier and husband Alex of Springdale; one brother, David Riner and wife Sue of Plumerville, Arkansas, one sister, Rosalyn Peterson and husband Kim of Hot Springs; seven grandchildren, Shelby, Kate, Erin, Caleb, Cameron, Avery, Liza and several nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be Thursday, October 4, 2018 at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church of Springdale with Rev. Judy VanHoose, Rev. Andrew Thompson and Rev. Jen Ryerson officiating. Visitation will begin at 12:30 at the church. Memorials may be made to Bread of Life, 208 W. Emma Ave., Springdale, Arkansas 72764 and Arkansas Family Health Foundation, 200 W. Race Street, Suite 201, Searcy, Arkansas 72143. Online condolences may be left at www.siscofuneral.com.