Daniel S. Paletko facts for kids

Daniel S. Paletko (born December 21, 1950 – died December 29, 2020) was an American politician. He served as the mayor of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, for many years. He was mayor from 2004 until his death in 2020.

Early Life and School

Daniel S. Paletko was born on December 21, 1950. He went to Crestwood High School. After high school, he continued his education. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Later, he received a master's degree in business from the University of Detroit. He also earned another master's degree from Wayne State University.

His Career in Public Service

Before becoming a politician, Mr. Paletko worked as an accountant. He was a Certified Public Accountant, which means he was an expert in managing money. He also worked as a financial manager at the Ford Motor Company.

Mr. Paletko started his journey in politics by going to city council meetings in Dearborn Heights. A city council is a group of people who make decisions for a city. He became a member of the Dearborn Heights city council in 1974. He served on the council for a long time, until 2002.

In 2002, he was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives. This is a group of lawmakers who make rules for the entire state of Michigan. He represented the 17th district from 2003 to 2004.

In January 2004, Mr. Paletko became the mayor of Dearborn Heights. He took over after the previous mayor, Ruth Canfield, retired. He left his job in the state house to become mayor. At the time of his death, he was the longest-serving mayor in the city's history.

Personal Life and Family

Daniel Paletko had two daughters. He was a member of the American Legion, a group for military veterans. He also attended St. Linus Catholic Church in Dearborn Heights. He often helped out there as an usher.

His Passing and How He Is Remembered

Mr. Paletko passed away while still in office on December 29, 2020. He was 70 years old. He died from complications of COVID-19 during the COVID-19 pandemic in Michigan.

After his death, the president of the Dearborn Heights City Council, Denise Malinowski-Maxwell, became the temporary mayor. Later, Bill Bazzi became the new mayor. He was the first Muslim mayor of Dearborn Heights. Mr. Paletko was buried at St. Hedwig Cemetery in Dearborn Heights on January 4, 2021.

People in Dearborn Heights remember Mayor Paletko. On April 29, 2021, Mayor Bazzi and other city officials planted a tree in his memory. It was an American Linden tree, planted on Arbor Day. A special plaque was placed at the base of the tree. It honors Mr. Paletko and his time as mayor. Also, a memorial golf outing was held for him on June 18, 2021. This event was organized by Police Corporal Carrie Hatten, Fire Marshal Max Mitts, and Firefighter Jammal Faraj.