Daneil Lee Sands

Daneil Lee Sands, age 72, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025, in Gresham, Oregon.

Born on April 29,1953, in Portland, Oregon, Dan raised his family in Gresham, moved to San Diego and when his first grandson was born moved back to Gresham where he resided for the remainder of his life.

Dan was a devoted husband, dad, son, brother, uncle, and friend. Throughout his life, he always tried to help those around him and would do anything for his friends and family. He had a strong work ethic, a fierce love for his wife and kids, and was someone you could always call for help, no matter what you needed. He treated everyone he met like family and welcomed his kids’ friends as his own.

Dan worked hard to ensure his children had a life full of new experiences and adventures. Over the years, he held various careers, including working for the Portland School District, as an insurance agent, and as a true entrepreneur—running businesses from auto body shops to car washes. Family was the center of his world and the source of his greatest joy.

Outside of work, Dan loved camping and all things outdoors. He instilled a love of camping, boating, tubing, and water skiing in his kids and all their friends. He loved being surrounded by people and creating memories in the places he loved most.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jan Sands, and his parents, Gerald and Gladys Sands.

He is survived by his four children: Alan Sands, Shawn Scanlon, Jada Edmunson, and Anna Knight; his grandchildren: Aiden Sands, Parker Sands, Ivory Knight, Gavin Knight, Emma Knight, Mackenzie Edmunson, Logan Edmunson, Stella Scanlon, and Vivian Scanlon; his sisters Kathy Lagers and Gail Larson; and his brother Denny Sands.

Dan will be remembered for his loving nature, his generosity, and his legacy of hard work and devotion to family. His spirit will live on through all those whose lives he touched.