Ya know I met Dan in 2001. He had a hearse that wouldn't run right. Being both gear heads I said let me take a looksie. After many adult beverages  it landed at my shop. Had jumped time. ie timing chain. Who knew. That's the Dan I remember meeting.

While restoring one of My Checkers a few years ago, I discovered that my dashboard was totally rusted out under the pad. Dan Sent me a replacement, for the cost of shipping.  A true Car guy he will be missed, and he left us too soon.

I will always remember Dan for the most valuable gift, the generosity of his time.  

Last summer I wanted to buy a new front seat with head rests for safety for my 1968 Checker Marathon. Dan said he had a bunch to choose from. I told him I would come by with my Checker, but Dan insisted that he bring the seat to me in his van as he didn't want me to dirty the inside of my car. In November, 2021,at the Good Guys convention in Scottsdale, he brought two front door hinge springs for me and explained how to install them. He wouldn't take a dime for them. Dan was always responsive to Checker owners. I will miss you greatly.  Mark Beehner

Our thoughts are with Judy and Mike and their family at this difficult time. 

I’m so sorry to hear of Dan’s passing. We met in Freshman English, he sat in front of me and we became fast friends. He was kind, smart, and funny. We always took time to catch up with each other when we ran Into each other through the years, and always kept in touch through Facebook messages. He was a friend. ❤️ 

Thanks for all of the hours dedicated to the Checker car hobby. 

While I didn't know Dan well, we had met a few times.  I remember his uncle Sheldon unsuccessfully  looking for a part for his vehicle so he called Dan. Dan not only found the part, but had it in his hand within two hours.  I'm sure he will be missed by all who knew him. 
The peace and blessings of our Lord be yours, Mike & Judt.
In His love, John & Nona Parks


We are sorry for your loss.  Losing a child is very difficult.  It sounds like he was very successful in Az.  Our prayers are with you.
Otto & Dorothy Wagenknecht

He will be greatly missed,  I'll always remember his herculean efforts to save Checker Cab parts to help Checker owners keep their cars on the road.  It was a selfless act, with little profit.

I met Dan as a young child, And quickly adopted him as family he was like an Uncle and a big brother rolled into one. 
Me and Dans sense of humor Clashed perfectly and made for many years of laughs 
He had a rough exterior but a heart of a teddy bear 
He was always there for me to lend an ear when life was happening and i was always their to return the favor 
So many of my favorite memories are thanks to you Dan I love you and miss you bud 🥺

I met Dan through the Checker Club and his good friend Matt.          He was so passionate about the Checkers and the restoration of them that he inspired me to own one as well. 
I purchased 2 of them from him and each time he made sure that I was pleased with my purchase.  
He always was there for me, anytime that I had questions or needed help.
 That was Dan, always answered the phone, always willing to help.

OBITUARY

Daniel Austin Smith

April 15, 1975 – February 20, 2022

Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services – Maryvale

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