Daniel passed away at Utah Valley Hospital in Provo, Utah late in the afternoon of October 25th after a lifetime of challenges. He was 67 years old. Dan was the son of John Howard Telford, Sr. and Ruth Devereaux Telford and was born in Salt Lake City, Utah where he lived most of his life. Dan was a "blue baby" at birth and the lack of oxygen during that time impacted his entire life. He was both mentally and physically challenged and was never able to live independently or function without supervision. He lived with his parents for 46 years during which time his mother taught him to read and write. His Dad was his best friend and Dan never quite got over his passing. After his Dad died, he moved to Bungalow Care Center where he received loving care and made many friends. Most recently, he had been living at the Provo Care Center in Provo, Utah.
Dan did not have the life his family would have wished for him, but he did the very best he could. He was a gentle soul who got along with everyone and was much loved by all who crossed his path. He was a hard worker and enjoyed working in the sheltered workshop affiliated with Provo Care Center. His family meant everything to him and he asked about each one every single day when he made his daily phone call to his sister, Nancy. One by one, beloved family members passed on and Dan had extreme trouble understanding why that had to happen. He had such a tender heart and just wanted everyone to be happy, healthy, and to be with him.
Dan loved playing his record player as a child, watching his beloved videos as an adult, any Neil Diamond concerts or cds, PEZ candy dispensers and donuts. Oh, how he loved donuts! They were on his request list for every special occasion and he always wanted enough donuts to share with his friends at the care centers!
Dan is survived by his sister, Nancy Telford Barron, his nephews Russell T. Barron (Sonia), Brett D. Telford, a niece, Holly Jo Telford, six grand-nephews and nieces and nine great-grand- nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by both parents, his brother, John Howard Telford, Jr., his brothers-in-law Howard P. Kendell and Thomas C. Barron, and his "fur brothers", his dogs Pete and Casper.
The family sincerely thanks the wonderful staff at Provo Care Center for their loving care of Dan over these past years. Words are not enough to express our appreciation. Please know that you did make a difference in his life.
Funeral Services will be held Friday, October 29, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 S Highland Drive, Millcreek, Utah with a viewing to be held from 10:00-10:45 at the same location. Interment will be at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park, 3401 South Highland Drive, Millcreek, Utah.
Dan is free now- finally perfect in mind and body - and reunited with all of the loved ones he has missed so much. Those of us who are left behind could not wish for anything more for him.
