Dan Mercer

“Coach” 

Daniel P. Mercer, 69, passed away in the arms of his wife and daughter on September 5, 2018, from the ravages of Alzheimer's disease.

Dan's favorite title and position in life, besides husband, father and bank president, was that of coach. Dan was a dedicated coach teaching and mentoring on the field and in the office. He was hardworking, ethical, honest and he hated B.S. For 24 years he coached football with the Brighton Ute Conference and at Brighton High School. Additionally, he managed and coached Babe Ruth and American Legion baseball and especially enjoyed coaching Bonnet Ball. Dan loved his players and he loved his brother-coaches. He served as Commissioner of the Ute Conference Football organization and president of its Brighton district. He was President and CEO of Guardian State Bank for 20 years.

At 14 he sold his bike and bought a 1950 Pontiac (minus a transmission), the first of a total of 83 cars and 10 Harley's throughout his life. He liked them fast, with chrome wheels and tinted windows. Dan greatly valued and enjoyed his friends from his many social, recreational and professional circles. He treasured his grandchildren. He loved Summerlin (Las Vegas), Cambria, Big Sur, Coronado, La Jolla, U of U football and any chrome accessory he could put on his Harleys.

Dan was born in Salt Lake City to Rosa Falsetti Mercer (deceased) and Parley Mercer (deceased). He's survived by his wife and best friend, Valerie, beloved son Alex and wife Kathi, cherished daughter Robyn and precious grandchildren Michael and Ashley. He is also survived by his sweet sister Anise Winterer (Joe), his much appreciated in-laws and a wonderful crew of nieces and nephews. He attended Our Lady of Lourdes Elementary, Judge Memorial, South High and University of Utah. He was proud to be a founder and the President and CEO of Guardian State Bank (now Bank of the West). After selling the bank, he established DPM Financial lending company and DPM Properties real estate. He enjoyed serving in many professional organizations including Administrator of the United States Small Business Administration Region VIII, board member of the Utah Bankers Association, member of the Western Independent Bankers Association and was appointed by Gov. Michael Leavitt as chairman of the Utah State Board of Financial Institutions. Dan was a respected member of the Utah banking community and influenced many. He served on the Utah Mental Health Association board of directors and volunteered with the Assistance League® of Salt Lake City. 

Valerie, Alex and Robyn welcome you to a celebration of Dan's life where remarks and toasts will be shared on Thursday, September 13, 2018 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking on the north side of the building.