Obituary of Daniel Dale Collier

Dan was taken by God peacefully early Saturday morning while he was sleeping after an extended illness. Dan was preceded in death by his father Jerry in 1987. Dan is survived by his mother Molly Watson of Tacoma, WA; sister, Carrie (Jamie) Mendall of Orondo, WA; 2 sons, Daniel (Deambra) Collier Jr., Clifford Collier both of WA. Dan grew up Tacoma, WA. He had somewhat of a mischievous childhood, as lots of boys do. But after some time of growing up, Dan soon realized what he was really good at. Building things. He loved tools and wood and creating and crafting. He became an excellent cabinet maker, who would soon be recognized for his work. Dan loved working. It was his passion. In addition to being an excellent cabinet maker, he also worked all phases of construction. Later in life he started his own construction company and after a few years of hard work, it really began paying off. Word got out of his excellent skills and soon he was busy all the time, along with earning the respect of his co-workers and colleagues. Along with that, he sub-contracted for the Puyallup Indian Tribes. They recognized his skills and soon promoted him to a supervisory position. He truly loved that job and the people he worked with. Dan had a heart of gold that few could see, as he kept it hidden under a rough exterior. He did many, many jobs for people, which sometimes were not paid for. He did it because he could and he loved it. He figured they would pay when they could. He also let friends come into to his home if they had no other place to go. Even if they could, he never asked for money from them because he didn’t really need it. It was his way of helping out and giving back. Dan had many friends and family members who loved and respected him and will truly miss his “sunny” disposition. He also loved all of them; he just had a hard time saying it. And without fail, Dan ALWAYS remembered his Mother on Mothers day. Dan really enjoyed his sugar gliders. They were a big joy in his life. Maybe now he can see Scream, Little Girl and Shadow on the other side. He is survived by Scootie, who will now live with his sister. He wanted her to have him. I feel privileged to have been there for him in his last months of life. It was a time of bonding and Love and mostly trusts. It is, without hesitation, an honor I would do again. I have learned many things over the last few months. But the biggest one is, to forgive is divine and forgiveness will set you free. Dan is now at peace and has a job of being one of Gods carpenters. I look forward to seeing him on the other side. Keep him in your hearts and prayers. And never forget to tell your loved ones how you feel, you might not have tomorrow. A family gathering will be held at a later date. I look forward to reading stories and comments from all of you. Peace and God Bless to you all. Carrie In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Franciscan Hospice, PO Box 1502, Tacoma, WA 98401-9836. Arrangements by Edwards Memorial Center 253-566-1008