Daniel “Danny” Clyne
July 12, 1960 - March 16, 2024
Daniel Ernest Clyne, 63, was carried away by angels and strong canyon winds into an amazing sunrise-filled sky with his wife by his side and his son in his heart and soul. Born July 12, 1960, to Haydee and Ernest Clyne in Inglewood, Calif., he lived an idyllic childhood surrounded by a large and loving family and Argentinian customs. Danny created lifelong friendships at Fountain Valley High School and is among the original bodysurfers to conquer “the Wedge” in Newport Beach. He began working alongside his dad in the office furniture industry after high school and met the love of his life, Melissa Hopkins, at Surfside; they married August 1, 1987.
The two began their married life in Northern California, and in September 1991 moved to Salt Lake City, Utah. Here Danny graduated from Westminster College with a bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude. Danny advanced as a project manager in the commercial furniture industry, working for Canadian-based SMED International, where he managed large installation projects in Turkey, Japan, Chile, Canada, and several major U.S. cities.
While enjoying an exciting work-, family-, and friend-filled world, Danny and Melissa heralded the 21st century with the birth of Christopher Daniel Clyne on October 20, 2000. Danny’s destiny among the first “stay-at-home Dads” was solidified when from December 2003 to July 2004, he survived two brain stem tumor surgeries. Although he lived “in constant pain” as an incomplete quadriplegic, he bravely rebuilt his life by applying his strength, tremendous willpower, good humor, a positive attitude, a strong belief in God and truth, and a passion for fun sprinkled with a return smile–and more luck than most–to build and expand the community he used to support his family through the ensuring 20 years.
Danny was Dad first. He enjoyed life through his son’s eyes as a First Robotics Mentor and Coach, Troop 202 Cub / Boy Scout Leader and volunteer, active St. Ambrose Catholic Church parishioner, and a reliable J.E. Cosgriff HSA parent leader and activity organizer. He was a jack of many trades: Sugar House home renovator, writer, public speaker, an acting extra, ACSM Certified Personal Trainer, cook, landscaper, gardener, rockhounder, radio contest winner…
Danny received a blood cancer diagnosis (MDS/MPN) in July 2022, and was fortunate to spend the last six months of his life surrounded by his many friends, family, and pets in cherished surroundings. Danny is survived by his loving wife, Melissa; son Christopher; sisters Adri Hale (Mike) and Dinah Ward (Rick). He was preceded in death by his brother George Pina (Sandy); mother Haydee; and father, Ernie; and parents-in-law, Philip and Shirley Hopkins.
The Clyne family wishes to thank the variety of wonderful and supportive caregivers and staff at The University of Utah Hospital / Huntsman Cancer Institute, as well as CNS Huntsman at Home-Hospice Care for their respectful and loving support.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on March 22 at 11:00 AM at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, Saint Ambrose Catholic Church, 1975 S 2300 E, Salt Lake City. He will be laid to rest at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Cincinnati, Ohio.
In Loving Memory
Danny, I miss your presence on this Earth, like the vast community of people who called you brother and friend. I am heartened to know that the pain you endured with exceptional stoicism, grace, and good humor is now washed away in the presence of almighty God. Your brother-in-law John
Dear Melissa and Chris, We first met Danny when your family was new to Cosgriff and Paul and I were hosting a "party board " at our home. Danny came early because he only wanted to stay a few minutes because you (Melissa) couldn't attend. He ended up staying the entire evening plus some! Everyone enjoyed meeting him and that was the start of a wonderful journey through the Cosgriff years. Danny was the best volunteer and friend to all! He was always working hard and giving generously with his time and talents. We have such fond memories of Danny! May God keep him close to all of our hearts and bless him always! Lisa Louie and Paul Cisneros sorry we missed his Funeral Mass as we were out of town but we were thinking of you.
Dear Melissa and Christopher, At the rainbows edge there is a place, where one crosses from earth to heaven.....the colors of the rainbow become more vibrant when a soul crosses over through the tunnel, to heavens gate. Danny was as vibrant and colorful as a brilliant ray of sunshine ��. His laughter, love, sense of humor and presence shall always be cherished. ... He etched a beautiful existence into life ....as you know.... He only waves farwell .....he never let's you go ....through the photos, stories and �� songs, and more, He leaves his memories with you...until...it's time to meet up again ...you will feel his presence like the wind. We will miss him �� .....he is a beautiful soul ....that forever leaves us with a smile .....we know in time we will meet up with our friend ....until then , there's a place in our heart where he resides....the laughter, love, and his smile. God gained a beautiful soul, we only separate for awhile. We honor Danny, his zest for life ....and all that he gave of himself here on earth....he's a twinkle in our eyes ....a tear drop of love from our hearts, Always he's is treasured ....his essence never departs! Danny shall be missed on this earth ....he was an incredible man! Our love to you Melissa and Christopher, May the Holy Spirit comfort you both! God Bless you �� ❤️ Our hearts �� are with you. Love, Rhonda and Gary Loughran
Melissa & Christopher~ Grief & Sadness is replaced with the Gratefulness of being in Danny's {& yours} life for over 3 1/2 decades. His Fun-loving, humorous outlook on life, Love of you both & his family/friends & Strong Faith in God is ever-present. ✝️ How Blessed are we to continue to gain strenght through him! ✨️ He is a true example of Grace, Love & Kindeness, even as he walked through trials. There is such comfort in trusting in God's promise..this isn't the End..we'll see him Again! Until then, the priceless memories live on in our hearts! ~All our Love ... Donna & Casey~
What a shock to see Danny's picture in the obituary section. Sending you my deepest sympathy Melissa and Christopher on your loss. Love and prayers.
In Loving Memory
