Danny “Dan” Harold Meyer
1946-2019
Danny “Dan” Harold Meyer, age 73, of Gig Harbor, WA passed away on Dec. 16, 2019.
Danny was born on Feb. 7, 1946 to Elmer & Mary Meyer in Madison, SD.
He grew up on the family farm near Ramona, SD and graduated from Ramona High School in 1964.
He moved to Tacoma in 1964 and attended Tacoma Community College, where he was part of the first graduating class. He also attended Bates Technical college for automotive repair training. He later instructed automotive repair and served on apprenticeship boards.
Dan and Sue married on August 19, 1967, moving to Gig Harbor in 1974.
Dan started in the automotive industry working for Harold & Betty Stroud at Stroud’s Auto Rebuild on South Tacoma Way, working in various capacities throughout the years.
In 1984, Dan and Sue purchased Kay & MaryAnn Parks’ collision repair shop at S 12th & Cedar in Tacoma (Kay Parks/Dan Meyer Auto Rebuild, Inc.) and for the next 30 years they built a successful business, taking care of people and providing quality craftsmanship.
He was on the forefront of environmental and safety programs concerning the automotive industry and was a longtime active member of the Automotive Service Association promoting positive industry relationships & standards.
In 2014 Dan & Sue sold their business and retired to the Cromwell area of Gig Harbor where he was often found mowing fields and tinkering with cars and tractors.
Dan cherished helping others, his adventures with family & friends and attending his grandkids’ activities. He touched countless lives by sharing his positive spirit and encouraging others, while being a cherished mentor to many. He was a self-less man, always offering his help, his friendship, or his quiet presence whenever needed. His joyful personality was contagious, his unforgettable laugh could always be heard.
He enjoyed spending time at their Mason Lake property and his numerous trips to South Dakota for pheasant hunting and tractor collecting.
Danny is survived by Sue, his wife of 52 years, son Todd (Shannon), daughter Jennifer, grandkids McKenzie, Tyler, & Maddie, sisters Violet, Carol, Rose (Keith) & brother Don (Tali), numerous nieces and nephews, and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Richard and David.