Daniel C. Wells, 83, passed away on February 10, 2025, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Born on October 6, 1941, in Evanston, Illinois, Dan was a man of intellect, quick wit, and an undeniable presence. He graduated from Evanston High School before earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Northwestern University. He later received an M.B.A. from the University of Michigan, setting the foundation for a distinguished career in marketing and advertising.

Dan began his professional journey at Gillette, Inc., working in the Paper Mate Pen Division in Chicago. His talents led him to Warner Lambert Inc. in Milford, Connecticut, where he served as the marketing manager for the Schick Safety Razor Division. In 1974, he was recruited as the Vice President of Marketing and Sales for Binney & Smith (Crayola Crayons) when they relocated their corporate headquarters to Easton, Pennsylvania. His expertise and leadership were instrumental in shaping the company’s success.

In 1979, Dan became a partner at the advertising agency Stiegler & Wells (now SWBR) in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Under his guidance, the agency flourished into a nationally recognized competitor with major accounts such as Dewalt Power Tools, Mack Trucks, and Binney & Smith. In 2004, B-to-B Magazine named SWBR one of the top 50 business-to-business agencies in the United States. Dan retired in 2013 after a long and impactful career.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dan was deeply engaged in his community. He was an active volunteer and leader with organizations such as The Lehigh Valley Partnership, Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation, Northampton County Economic Development Corporation, Allentown Art Museum, and Historic Bethlehem. His contributions helped shape and strengthen the region he called home.

Dan was an active member of First Presbyterian Church in Bethlehem and found joy in both sport and camaraderie at Northampton Country Club and Saucon Valley Country Club. He had a passion for golf, tennis, paddle tennis, fly fishing, skeet shooting, football, and sailing—sports that reflected his competitive spirit and love of challenge.

Above all else, Dan was a devoted husband to Lois D. Wells and a loving father to Laura E. Wells and Jonathan M. Wells. He cherished his grandchildren—Caitlin Escalante, Sam Wells, Polly Wells, and Lena Wells—and took great pride in their accomplishments. He is also survived by his brothers David Wells (Barbara Love) and Thomas Wells (Allison McRae), as well as his nephew William Wells (Julia) and grandniece Hadley Wells. He was predeceased by his parents Dr. Joseph A. Wells and Dorothy Spindle Wells, his brother James Wells, and his nephew Brian Wells.

Dan’s presence was larger than life; he had an extraordinary ability to connect with people through conversation and humor. He welcomed challenges with determination and approached life with enthusiasm that inspired those around him. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched personally and professionally.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dan’s honor to The Allentown Art Museum or Historic Bethlehem.