Daniel Francis Padon

Daniel Francis Padon, 58, born on June 27, 1960 in Billings, Montana, died peacefully from his battle with leukemia on Holy Saturday, April 20, 2019. He was at home in Bozeman, Montana in the company of his wife.



Family was the center of Danny’s life, spending nearly every summer at reunions with all his Padon clan. From camping in his personal reconditioned trailer or flying down a mountain side on skis, sleds or a plastic bag, Danny knew how to enjoy every season and bring others into the fun, no matter how dangerous. He also loved to boat, hunt, fish, attend concerts, plan vacations and bird watch. He brought keen humor, hyperbolic story retelling, and spontaneous outbursts filled with joy to every encounter. He loved nature and always had a new tinkering project or invention in the works. Danny learned what was important in life from his mother and father, by avoiding materialism and living the simple life filled with passion, fun and music. He was loyal and reliable, especially when others needed help. He was always available for assistance and was committed to a life of service.



Danny began his career in paper sales at his company, Norwest Business Forms. From there he began driving bus to transport disabled and elderly for STA in Spokane and later Bozeman for First Student. He had an incredible work ethic, made great friendships and worked to improve working conditions through his local First Student Union. He was a huge fan of Gonzaga Basketball and was given Honorary Alumni status from Fr. Tony Lehman, S.J.



Danny leaves behind his wife, Stacey Church, his children, Celeste and John Peter, his stepdaughters, Rebecca, Brittany, Niki, and Cassandra. He was the sixth of nine children born to Charlotte and Jack Padon, and will be mourned by his siblings and their spouses, Jack (Philomina Bracy), Dick (Jerri Nell Eppler), Cappy Moore (Jeff), Pam Wittman (Kurt), David (Cece Byorth), Kevin (Kellyann Robinson), Pat (Holly Miller), Mary Rogers (Darren) along with his 32 nieces and nephews. As for his surviving wife, children and siblings, we will forever feel the loss of Danny and his contagious laughter and spirit in our lives.



Danny’s wish of a celebration of life memorial service will be honored on Thursday, April 25, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. at Dahl Funeral & Cremation Service Tribute Center in Bozeman, MT. If you would like to make a donation on behalf of Danny’s memory, it was his request that they be made to his brother Kevin’s “Pizza for Change Fund” to help the less fortunate in need of compassion and connection and can be found at: www.gofundme.com/pizza-for-change-fundraiser.



"to be continued ..."