I remember Dan as a nice guy and very talented. He had a great sense of humor. He will be missed.
Randy Houck (Subaru)

My deepest condolences to Yoshiko and Danny’s family. 
Dan was such a talented designer and loved the studio environment. My fondest memories of him/Pig Farmer were the years we spent at Ford Design. I don’t think a day went by when we didn’t find some type of joke or prank to play on one of the design staff. We found something to laugh about each day and also did some designing as well.
I look back and wonder how we didn’t get fired! 
I will always miss his friendship and sense of 
humor. 
Rest in peace, my friend.



Doug Gaffka



Great sketch from Danny….he had the vision!

Dan the man was a super talented designer and a friend to so many. Missed him over the years and saddened to read of his passing. My condolences to his wife and family.  A truly great man. 
Miss you Dan

Dear Yoshiko, I send the warmest condolences of my family. Gianluca Forneris from CECOMP Italy

My heart is with Yoshiko and Dan's family. In loving memory of my dear friend Dan, who has left us far too soon. I'll always remember the incredible joy and laughter he brought into my life! He was more than just a friend; he was a guiding light for us young designers, always lifting us up and supporting our dreams. His caring and compassionate nature touched the hearts of many. I'll miss him tremendously, but the memories of his kindness and warmth will forever remain in my hearts. You've made an everlasting impact on us all. 🕯️🕯️🕯️  





Uncle Danny was a loving husband and family friend. His love always filled the room. However, what stood out most was his strength in the face of death. Despite facing his mortality numerous times, Danny managed to embody virtues which we should all strive to achieve. He will be greatly missed and will always be in the hearts of the Franceschis. 

Danny-San is the kindest human being I’ve ever know. He is passionate to his work, supportive to his friends. And best of all, he has great humor. I was an intern when I started, introverted, shy, and always stressed out. Danny-San always walked pass my desk giving me some surprising jokes. I feel much included in the team because of him. And throughout the years, Danny-San continuously supported me for my career even after I left. I feel truly grateful for all of it.

Rest in peace, Danny-San, my thoughts are with Yoshiko-san and your family during this time.

Dan The Man you will forever by in our hearts and memories,  your humour and sense of honour set you apart in  so many ways.
We are all lucky that you have in some way integrated in our lives!
RatMan

My last photo with Danny.. please rest in piece.. You are existing forever in our hearts.

Danny’s painting that he drew while he was working in Subaru Japan is still hanging up at the advance studio in STC Tokyo that handled by Mr.Ishii, Danny’s best friend.

One of Danny’s best friends in Japan, Mr. Ishii of Subaru who met Danny when Danny was a chief designer at Subaru. Now Ishii is a top in STC. Danny holds a design book that supervised by Ishii. June, 2023

On Danny’s birthday in May, 2023 at his house. 

A snap shot when ICONA was moving out from Danny’s studio in RSM back in Oct, 2022

One day Danny called me to come to his house and showed me off his Countac LP500S. A few month after from that date, he allowed me to drive it when he sold it. 

One day Danny took me out to his favorite Irish bar with Yoshiko after work some day in June, 2019 soon after I joined ICONA DESIGN, to try removing my inexperience-tension at work. Danny was a heart warming man. His favorite was Guinness.

Danny as used to be an owner of Lamborghini Countac LP500S

Danny and Yoshiko sitting together at the ICONA DESIGN STUDIO. Danny called me out “Oi, Chotto Koi” means  “Hey you! Come here!” in Japanese and when I showed up he gave me stupid jokes.

Danny, Goose, and myself at the Studio in Aug, 2019

My first official encounter with Danny as a member of ICONA back in May, 2019 by Hiro

Dear Yoshiko,
 I am so sorry to hear about Danny passing. I did not know him well however the time we spent together I was impressed with his intellect and most of all his sense of humor. We will all miss him. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Be well, Larry Brandt 

It is with great sadness I express my condolences to such a great friend's departure, rekindling great memories of our time together as roomates while at Art Center. RIP Dannny! 
 



We are humble to have known “Dan the Man” as a kind, caring
and funny friend  & Yoshiko’s loving husband for decades.
He was such a brave soul & fighting till the end along with never giving up hope! You two were a true team of love ! 
Let your tears flow, and may your sorrows be softened with happy memories. 
We are  thinking about you and sending our heartfelt sympathies and condolences.
Uschi & Loren Golden

Danny will be dearly missed.  His creativity, humor, and enthusiasm made a lasting impression on those around him.  I'm honored to have known Danny and take some small comfort in knowing that his influence will remain with so many of us.  Thanks for everything.

Danny was such a good friend and mentor. What a wonderful, warm and heartfelt guy to have in the automotive design industry. I’m so happy I had the chance to work with him during my time at Icona Design. My thoughts and prayers go out to Yoshiko, and the rest of the family.

Hello Yoshiko, 
I hope you are OK, 
You may not remember but I was at your's and Danny's wedding in Laguna Beach, I was working with Danny in Huntington Beach in those days, working with him was fun, he was very creative and experienced.
When I heard of Danny passing away it was a great shock and so sad.
You are in mine and my wife's thoughts at this difficult time.

Danny has been a dear friend for 23 years. He and Yoshiko were always together and formed our steady rock in these rough California seas. He will be much missed and never forgotten. Rest in peace DanDaMan!

OBITUARY

Danny Elmer Ellis

April 22, 1949 – July 27, 2023

Fairhaven Memorial Services

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