The past ten days have felt like a glitch in reality for the team at DTW. In an office where routines usually offer comfort, the silence left behind by Danielle Conklin is deafening. Her name still flickers in email threads, her extension is still dialed by habit, and the sudden realization that she isn’t there to answer is a sharp, recurring sting.

Danielle wasn’t just a colleague; she was the person who kept the day grounded with a perfect mix of humor and “tough love.” Who else is going to get playfully annoyed about a missing time card? Who will offer that knowing laugh during a “hissy fit” over things out of our control? For those she worked alongside in Dover, hiding a phone or sharing a vent session was a daily rite of passage. It simply doesn’t seem real that those moments have transitioned into memories.

Looking at her tribute photo, the immediate thought among her work family was pure Danielle: she would be so happy they chose that one because her hair looked great and her earrings were “on point.” It’s that vibrant, detail-oriented spirit that made her so beloved.

While the “DTW family” is dreading the upcoming service on Friday, there is a small comfort in imagining her reaction. You can almost hear her saying a surprised “Danggg” as she looks down and sees the massive wave of people showing up to support her and her family.

Though hearts are shattered for her loved ones, the way the company has rallied together is a testament to the person she was. We really do work for the best company, and while the office goes on, it will never quite be the same without her daily presence. Rest easy, Danielle; we’ll try to get our time cards in on time, just for you.