Daniel Phillip Johnson
January 19, 1960 - August 6, 2021
It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our Dan. Daniel Phillip Johnson, was born January 19th, 1960 to Don and Phyllis Johnson. Dan graduated from Brighton High School in 1978 and began a career working alongside his dad as the Assistant Pro at Hidden Valley Country Club where he helped many grateful students improve their golf games with his intuitive teaching style.
Later, Dan started his own print broker firm, Chayley Company – named after his two children Chase and Hayley, whom he adored. Dan was a loving father who served as room mother and car pool driver while the kids were growing up, and he showed love for them every day with his nurturing kindness.
Dan was a loving son, brother, husband, father and, most recently grandpa to Gracie Gashler. Everyone that came into contact with Dan felt that they were appreciated, important and special – because that is the way he made everyone feel.
One of Dan’s greatest joys in life were his fishing trips with his father on the Green River. Dan was an expert fly fisherman. Dan also loved rescuing and caring for dogs. Dan had a great, dry sense of humor that could make anyone smile and laugh.
Dan fought hard for those he loved, even despite personal pain and struggles with clinical depression. He is now free, after giving everything he possibly could give.
Dan is survived by his mother, Phyllis Johnson, Sister Kathy Johnson, Brothers Tim (Michelle) and Mike (Marcie) Johnson, his loving wife Karen Kennedy Johnson, children Chase and Hayley (Kyle) Gashler, and new baby granddaughter Grace Renae Gashler. He is also survived by many in laws, nieces, and nephews who all loved him dearly.
A Celebration of Dan's Life will be on August 19, 2021 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East in Salt Lake.
We would like to thank Dan for all his love and kindness over the years. He will leave a very large hole in all of our hearts. In conclusion, we feel Dan should get the last word. These are his words:
“Thank you! I have been extremely blessed to have the best family and friends a man could ever ask for. I had a good run! For the first 50 years, I more than held my own against a formidable opponent. Needless to say, the last 10 years the pendulum swung dramatically in the opposite direction. Thanks to all who have invested so much time, effort, and resources to help me. I truly tried to reciprocate. I pray that additional advancements for the treatment of these disorders will come sooner rather than later.
Some say God only gives us what we can handle..while others say the pain is just passed on..Maybe both are true..
Please do not pass judgement until you have actually walked in the shoes of another.
Love always, Daniel Phillip Johnson.”
Dan truly exemplified his favorite quote: “In the end, kindness is all that matters.”
In Loving Memory
...in his words... exemplifies the Dan we've gotten to know over these past years, we enjoyed him so much His favorite quote is awesome! We are so truly sorry for your loss. Taking ones own life has touched our lives as well, you our friends are not alone. Dan loved you all so much. You are exactly who you should be, and you are all enough. We wish you love and prayers, especially now Blessings ����
Damon & Joseph
Millcreek, Ut
As devistated as we are at losing such a kind caring soul, we feel so lucky to have had Dan in our lives for as long as we did. He was so good to all of us -He had so much love and compassion for everyone - including animals. I wish we had thirty more years with Dan, and there will forever be sadness in our hearts at losing him, but just knowing him for as long as we did was a privilege. He was an example of how to treat others that I can only strive to attain. We love you, Danny. And that love will continue on - even in your absence. Thank you for how hard you tried.
Kris K Trout
Salt Lake City, UT
I am a friend of your sister. It is so lovely to had read so many beautiful comments about your loss. Sending much bright light your way. Anne
Anne Steidl
Cranston, RI
May the Memories live forever! I was honored to know Dan, I was blessed to be able to see his love for his family as they grew up. He always would put a smile on my face when I would come clean your home. We got to tell stories about our kids solve the world's problems and listen to each others trials. Even though times change and we hadn't seen each other for years. You and your family will always be loved by us!. Love you Dan Karen Haley and Chase I will miss you Dan Love Becky Davies & Family
Becky Davies
Sandy, UT
Shining smile We were priviledged to have Dan and Karen and their family as our neighbords and friends in our little community. Dan always had that shining smile whenever we saw him. Our dogs were good friends, my Alexander loved Flo and Doc and of course he would be a good dog when Dan told him so. We will miss you dear friend. There are no words to tell Karen how sorry we are, just be there for her and the family. Yes, you are not alone, taking ones life has also affected my family.
Liliana and Ed Davies
Millcreek, Ut
We're so sorry for your loss, Karen, Chase and Hayley, our sincere condolences! The more we learn about Dan, the more we wished we had known him better. However, Judy and I know one thing for sure, is that he and Karen raised one super daughter in Hayley! We're grateful to have her be Kyle's companion and be a part of our family. We love her as our own! May the Lord bless you during this time of sorrow! Judy & Jerry
Judy and Jerry Rump
Tigard, Or
I have wonderful memories of Dan -- working on marketing projects at PermaPlate, as his student trying out his new video golf lessons, at company parties and events -- with Dan always finding the humor in any situation. I'll always remember Dan's kindness, humble nature, his funny stories, and his big smile. I'm happy I knew him and that our life paths crossed. Sending big hugs and my love to his family who he adored, and who loved him so much. Debbie Nisson
Debbie Nisson
SANDY, UT
The first time Mike met Dan was at Hidden Valley C.C. in 1980 and he noted that his smile was incredibly infectious and his dry sense of humor was captivating! Working at HVCC gave him the opportunity to share many rounds of golf together with Dan and his dad, Don. Mike invited Dan to caddy for him at his first major golf championship in the U.S. Open in 1982 at Pebble Beach. Mike struggled for the first 10 holes especially since he was the very last tee time and the garbage men were right behind them! Mike turned around and Dan made this comment to him on the 10th tee. He said, "if you make another double bogey Mike, would it be ok if I play the rest of the round for you?!!" That was a true example of Dan's humor. He always made you feel better no matter what the situation. Our trip to the U.S. Open was made memorable with Dan there....a "once in a lifetime event!" Dan inspired Mike to be a better person and we both will cherish the time we spent with him. He will be dearly missed and will always be the bright spot in our memory book of life. Our prayers go out to Karen, Chase, Hayley, his dear mom, Phyllis, and family. Know that Don will be waiting for him in heaven to greet him. He was dearly loved by us.
Mike and Charlene Malaska
Mesa, AZ