William Daniel Cordray

W. DANIEL CORDRAY

William Daniel Cordray, born on March 25, 1938, peacefully entered his final rest on September 10, 2026, surrounded by the profound love of his family. He was a man who lived a life so rich, vibrant, and wildly successful that it seemed lifted straight from the movies.

Dan (as he preferred) came from nothing. Possessing an innate, unstoppable drive, he left home at an early age to test his grit in the rodeo as a bull rider, later joining AEP as a lineman at just seventeen. Through sheer courage, volunteering for the most dangerous high-voltage lines and experiments, he saved his earnings to build his own empire—eventually founding Commercial Works in 1973. He transformed a small crew and a single truck into a regional powerhouse company operating across multiple states. His remarkable business accomplishments were proudly featured in the Columbus Monthly and The Columbus Dispatch.

But Dan was far more than his staggering success. He was a man of captivating charm, frequently noted for his striking, movie-star handsomeness and piercing blue eyes that drew comparison to Paul Newman. Whatever he did in life, he truly did it ‘His Way’—living out the words of the classic Sinatra song with fierce independence, charisma, and absolute style. Upon his passing, Dan took his final flight to join his parents, his beloved sister Grace Ann and his children, Bruce Anthony (Tony) and Alexandra (Alex) LePage, in the ultimate celestial reunion—no doubt orchestrating his arrival “his way”!

His final fourteen years were defined by deep stability, absolute devotion, and the joy of his family, including his loving wife, Lyn, and his cherished granddaughter, Adilee. Dan was preceded in death by, his parents William M. Cordray and Helen May Cordray (Kessler); his dear sister, Grace Ann (Cordray) Huse; his beloved son, Bruce Anthony (Tony) Cordray; and his beautiful daughter, Alexandra LePage (Alex) Cordray.

Dan’s legacy of strength lives on through his devoted family. He is survived by his loving wife, Lyn; his brother, Steve Cordray (Mary); his daughter, Danielle Boudreault (Michael); and his daughter-in-law, Cathy Cordray (Tony). He is also cherished by his grandchildren: Adilee Cordray, Ella Cordray, Koen Grandlee, Max Cordray, Kayla Boudreault, Christopher Boudreault, and his nieces Lori Williamson (Joseph) & Amy Brunelle (Richard). Dan so loved it when they visited! He will be missed by his other beloved nieces, nephews, and many wonderful friends. It is certain they will all have countless memorable stories to tell, and in the sharing, Dan will forever be with us.

As was his wish, a majestic private Viking farewell ceremony will be held by his family on the crystal-blue waters of his favorite place in the world, St. Barts, releasing his spirit into the beautiful ocean he loved so dearly.

There will be a “Celebration of Life” for close family and friends, details will be forthcoming.