Dan was born on December 23, 1938 in Wichita, KS to Jack and Betty McKown. His older sister Sharon was born in 1937 and he was followed by Nancy in 1940, Jack in 1943, and Cathy in 1952. The McKowns settled in the neighborhood of Riverside when Dan was very young. As a student, he attended Riverside Elementary, John Marshall Junior High, and North High School.

Shortly after graduating high school, Dan moved to Albuquerque, NM, where he lived with his aunt and uncle and also worked in their flower shop. He eventually made a home of his own in Albuquerque but, being a nomad, Dan left New Mexico and lived in California, Texas, and North Dakota before finally returning to Wichita.

Dan worked in several fields. He was a florist, a banker, and a restaurateur before becoming a nurse, which he was for over twenty years. Throughout most of his adult life, Dan was accompanied by his partner and best friend, Bobbie Slyter.

An accomplished organist and pianist, Dan loved the theatre, classical music, poetry, and artwork. Dan was witty and an engaging conversationalist, and he enjoyed discussing these interests with everyone—such as those cherished friends he made while living at Somerset Plaza Tower.