KU News Release

University of Kansas mourns student Daniel Persons

LAWRENCE – University of Kansas Chancellor Robert E. Hemenway and Michael M. Swann, associate dean in the School of Architecture and Urban Design, released the following statements in response to the death of KU student Daniel S. Persons of Towanda, who was killed in a traffic accident early Sunday morning east of El Dorado.

Hemenway: “On behalf of the entire KU community, I send our heartfelt condolences to Daniel’s parents, family and friends. Our hearts go out to them at this time of tragic loss.”

Swann: "Daniel Persons entered the Master of Architecture degree at KU in 2008 with an amazing record of academic accomplishment. His curiosity about the world, combined with artistic talent, a strong work ethic and a congenial personality gave him unusual promise as an architecture student. He will be missed greatly by his fellow students and by his instructors in the School."

Persons had completed his freshman year in KU’s School of Architecture and Urban Design and was enrolled in classes for the fall term. He was the son of Steven and Pamela Persons.

Downing & Lahey Mortuary East in Wichita is handling the services scheduled at St. John Catholic Church in El Dorado. A rosary at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 17, and funeral mass at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 18. The family has suggested donations, in lieu of flowers, to the Dan Persons Memorial Scholarship Fund in c/o the Circle School District Foundation, 905 E. Main, Towanda, KS 67144.

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