Daniel (Danny) (Dan), passed peacefully during the night of January 30, 2018. He was surrounded by his loving family during a hospital stay for pneumonia and other health concerns.
Dan was born in Seattle, WA as the youngest of three children. He went home to his loving parents (Father) Curtis Smith, (Mother) Ethel Richards, (Step Father) Ernie Richards, and (Sister) Karen Poulson. Dan is survived by his (Aunt) Diane Nissen, (Sister) Cathy Turman, (Daughters) Keli Rudd and Rebbecca Sands, (Son-in-Law) Lee Sands, (five grandchildren) Allison, Audrey, Evelyn, Devin and Claire, nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, longtime friends, and family that will greatly miss his humor and presence.
Dan graduated from Oakdale High School in 1971. He enjoyed riding mountain bikes in his early years and sailing/camping at Woodward Reservoir with his kids/grandkids and family in his free time. His love and dedication to being a self-taught photographer often led him to places like Knights Ferry, Rushing Mountain Lookout, and the ocean. He had a special place in his heart his entire life for dogs and would rarely be seen without his pet friend by his side. He spent nearly 35 years in the construction field around the Oakdale, Riverbank and Modesto area. He started his career as a construction laborer and honed his skill level to that of a framer, finisher, and inspector, then on to Superintendent of local large Construction companies in the area.
A Celebration of Life has been arranged in Modesto at Homewood Village, 2000 Mable Ave., Modesto, on February 24, 2018 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. His Family would love to share stories and celebrate his life with all that may have known Dan during his time here with us.
The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader
Feb. 21, 2018