Leland Dane Smith
October 2, 1951 - June 22, 2017
Leland Dane Smith, 65, loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend left Thursday, June 22, 2017, on the ultimate hiking trip where the trail never ends. He was born on October 2, 1951, in San Diego, CA, to parents Leland and Veralu "Sam" (Mason) Smith.
Dane attended Skyline High School where he lettered in football and graduated in 1970. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in psychology from the University of Utah in 1975, and
a nursing degree from Weber State University in 1990. Dane spent seven years as a successful stock broker in Salt Lake and then switched careers into health care. Dane worked for the Salt Lake Regional Medical Center for 19 years as a RN with the majority of his career spent in the Medical ICU. Dane married the love of his life Gloria (Smith) on May 20, 2000, and will be remembered for his love of his caring and adoring wife. Dane loved the outdoors and with his wife by his side, the two of them spent countless hours hiking and exploring the beautiful locations they visited in the west. Dane's love for the outdoors was also shared with his family and friends playing tennis, golf, rafting, mountain biking, hiking, and an annual trip to the desert with the "Desert Rats" who commented "may Dane's new journey include red rocks, white rims and pygmy forests".
Dane is survived by his wife Gloria; stepson Codie (Cassie) Nelson; grandsons Nicholas, Nathan, Garrett and Cole Nelson; sister Tracy (Randy) Bendixen; brothers Jeffrey "Rock" (Sherrie), Randy; his step- mother Joan Smith; and two half-sisters Alisa and Jennifer.
Dane was preceded in death by his father Leland Smith; mother Veralu Mason; and stepfather Merlin "Doc" Mason.
Special appreciation goes out to the caregivers who watched over Dane and to Inspiration Hospice and Home Health for their gentle and caring support as Dane's life came to a close.
A celebration of Dane's life will be held on June 27th from 6:30 to 8:30pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking provided on the north side of the building. A funeral service will be held on June 28th, at 11:00 am with a viewing one hour prior to services also at Starks. Internment will be at the Providence City Cemetery.
In Loving Memory
So sorry to hear of Dane passing. Dane, John Bushman and I shared many good times together even though they were a year older than me. Unfortunately, like most of my classmates it seems, we lost touch after high school. But I've always continued to consider him a good friend and wondered about him often. Deepest sympathies to all the family and I wish you all love, peace, and happiness.
Woody Marshall
Moab, UT
So very sad to hear of Dane passing. He was my best friend growing up. Played Little League Baseball with him for several years. The Giants. Some of my favorite memories as a kid Dane is in. Thanks for who you are and what you have left with me. No time on earth is long enough to share with those we love or to prepare our hearts for good-bye.
Darren Ellingson
Chandler, Az
so sorry to hear of Dane passing. I went to Jr. high school with Dane and worked at the old Highland Drive In with him. He was a great guy and friend.
brent combes
salt lake city, ut
I am so sorry to learn of Dane's passing. I had the good fortune to play defense with him on the Skyline 1970 State Championship team. He was a great safety and we always knew Dane had our back. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. May God bless you and keep you at this difficult time.
Dave Jackson
Cincinnati, OH
Sad to hear of Danes passing. We were friends in high school, college and in the stock business. My condolences to Gloria, Rock, Randy and Tracy.
Jim Heugly
St. George, Ut
My deepest sympathies to the family and friends. Death at any age is difficult. May you find comfort in the words found at 1 Corinthians 15:26. It says: And the last enemy, death, is to be brought to nothing. And Hosea 13:14 says "From the power of the Grave I will redeem them; From death I will recover them." A wonderful promise from Jehovah God who cannot lie.
CB
Newark, NJ