Loved Ones Pay Tribute to Principal Dan Marburger

PERRY, Iowa (KCCI) – The funeral of Dan Marburger, the principal of Perry High School, took place on Saturday as friends and family gathered to remember him. Ethan Humble, reporting for KCCI, highlighted Marburger’s qualities as a devoted family man and selfless servant.

A Tragic Incident Leaves a Community in Mourning

On January 4th, Perry High School was struck by tragedy when a student opened fire in the cafeteria. The incident resulted in the loss of an 11-year-old sixth grader and left six others injured. Sadly, Marburger, 56, succumbed to his injuries ten days later. The entire community has come together to honor the victims and support their families during this difficult time.

A Farewell Filled with Love and Remembrance

Marburger’s funeral, held at the Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines, was attended by approximately 600 people. The service provided an opportunity for loved ones to bid their final goodbyes. As Marburger’s wife, Elizabeth, expressed her gratitude for his unwavering love, his children pledged to keep his memory alive through their never-ending love.

A Legacy of Unconditional Love

The Marburgers’ love story began in eighth grade, and they shared over 40 years of unwavering devotion. Elizabeth Marburger fondly remembered her husband’s unconditional love and encouraged others to seek such relationships in their own lives. The funeral served as a testament to the impact Marburger had on his community and the lives he touched.

A Community United in Support

The Perry community has displayed remarkable unity as they rallied together to support the victims and their families. Despite the unimaginable pain caused by the shooting, residents extended their compassion even to the parents of the shooter, cooking meals for them as they mourned their son’s tragic actions.

The Investigation Continues

Authorities continue to investigate the motives behind the shooting. Dylan Butler, the 17-year-old student responsible for the incident, carried a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun. He also had an improvised explosive device, which had to be disarmed. Investigators are meticulously examining his social media posts and gathering witness testimonies to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.

A Tentative Return to Normalcy

While the community grieves, plans are underway to gradually bring students back to school. The district intends to tighten security measures, including the presence of uniformed police officers, but has decided against implementing more invasive measures such as metal detectors or mandatory clear plastic bags. However, many parents, especially those with wounded children, remain apprehensive about the reopening.

Looking for Positivity Amidst Tragedy

Elizabeth Marburger encouraged everyone to seek the good in the world, even during times of immense sorrow. The Perry community’s response to the shooting has demonstrated their resilience and ability to come together during challenging times. Despite the pain they have endured, they continue to look for ways to support one another and find hope in the face of tragedy.