Daniel James Smith
November 16, 1947 - September 1, 2025
Daniel James Smith, 77, of Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, in Salt Lake City.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, to John G. Smith and Virginia Smith (Barton). He had 5 siblings; Patrick Smith (Vino), Therese Covert (John), Connie Smith-Cunningham (Alan), Tom Smith, and Marti Morris(Ron). Danny spent his early years there before moving to Salt Lake City at age 12. He graduated from Judge Memorial High School in 1965 and soon after answered the call to serve his country. Dan proudly and honorably served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, an experience that shaped his dedication, resilience, and love of country.
On January 12, 1973, Danny married Carla Yvonne Palmer, with whom he raised a family. They later divorced. Later in life, he found love again with Dorothy “Angel” Hornedo. Their ten years together brought him great joy until her passing.
Danny was a proud father to his son, Tony Smith, and daughters, Veronica Bennion (Jess) and Keri (Smith) Lehman. He was a loving grandfather to Brettney (Bronson), Cody “Jaymz”, Skyler, Ryker, Quinn, and Adeline “Finn”, and a cherished great-grandfather to Brooklyn, Bronson, Beckham, Berkeley, and Bristol. His family was his greatest source of pride and happiness.
Danny spent many years bowling, golfing, fishing, and spending time with close friends at several local watering holes sharing stories of the past and the ones that got away.
For more than 50 years, Dan worked in the HVAC industry, earning the respect of colleagues and customers alike for his hard work, knowledge, and reliability.
Beyond his career, he was known for his quick wit and ability to make others laugh. He always had a joke ready to break the ice and brighten someone’s day, a gift that made him unforgettable to all who knew him. He may be the only Irishman to ever leave a bar.
Danny’s life was one of love, service, hard work, and laughter. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family would like to thank the staff at the William E. Christofferson Veterans Home, Canyons Hospice, and the George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center for their loving care of Danny.
Danny’s viewing will be held September 5, 2025 from 6:00 until 8:00PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84106. Funeral Mass September 6, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.. at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1375 East Spring Lane, Holladay, Utah, 84117. Iurnment will take place on September 15, 2025 2:00 p.m. Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 4th Ave. & “T” Street. Inurnment will be with full Military Honors. All are welcome.
Following the funeral, a celebratory gathering will be held at 695 W. 4800 S. SLC. Please join us in an evening of laughter and drinks, to honor in Danny’s memory.
In Loving Memory
So sorry to hear about Dan's passing. He was a good older brother. Damn this passage of time.
My Heart and Prayers GoOut to Dans Family For Their Loss Of A Great Man! Anyone Who Happened To Be Blessed With The Opportunity To Know This Man Will Surely Be Missing Him Forever!
I am sorry to hear of your loss. As we get older we do start to lose family and friends and it's still quite as shock.
My sincere condolences to Dan’s family, and offering prayers in this most difficult time for them. He always cheered up my day with his humorous posts he would send me via Facebook.
Unfortunately, I will not be able to make it to the viewing or funeral. Tony, Ronnie, Keri and family, I want you to know that I am thinking of you and sending love. Dan was such a good guy and he was definitely one of a kind. He will be missed. All my love to you and yours. Mike.
I’m so sorry to hear about Dans passing. We were first cousins and enjoyed times when we Younger. I hadn’t seen him much for several years but when I did he always had a funny joke. My sincerest condolences and prayers to all of you…his family.
My deepest condolences to all Danny’s family. He was a great friend since High School. He could put a smile on anyone’s face. He will be missed by many. RIP Danny Boy!
You kids have been through so much the last couple of years, with passing of your mom and now this. We're so sorry for another loss you have to go through so soon. Our hearts are with you now. Sending you our love.
Hi Cousin Danny, I was so sad to hear the news of your passing. You sure did remind me of Grandpa Smith. I am sorry I will not be there to celebrate your life with the family but I am there in spirit. Rest easy fisherman!
ONE GREAT SALESMAN!!!!
We are very sorry for your loss. We always enjoyed his smile and sense of humor. God Bless him and his family. We will have a mass said for him.
My deepest sympathy to you and your family Marti(Martha) on the passing of your brother Dan. My arms are wrapped around you my dearest friend.
Therese and family So sorry to learn of Dans passing. You and your family are in my prayers. God Bless you and your family 🙏💕
Well, it's been a month. I'm missing your jokes and laugh. Our dads gave us a good sense of humor and the only ones in the family to get away with some of the jokes. Rest easy.
In Loving Memory
