Dan Samuel Garretson

October 4, 1968 - June 14, 2016

DAN SAMUEL GARRETSON "I am a person who thinks life is beautiful. I love free flight, this summer will be awesome!" Dan Samuel Garretson returned to his Heavenly Father's care on Tuesday, June 14, 2016 in West Jordan, Utah. He was 47 years old. Dan was born October 4, 1968 in Bakersfield, California, but spent his childhood in Ridgecrest, California, on the Mojave desert where he had fun chasing lizards, snakes, and jackrabbits. He loved to eat--his favorite food was pancakes. Many days were spent working on Cub Scout requirements and playing in his tree house. He especially enjoyed camping and fishing with his family at Whitney Portals. When Dan was nine years old his mother passed away. After his dad remarried, Dan began a new life in Salt Lake City. His new adventures included traveling with the family, catching minnows at Lake Powell, and swimming in the backyard. As a teenager he had fun video gaming and break dancing. Dan worked in the family garden and made delicious, big green salads with the fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. He graduated from Highland High School in 1987. In 1988 he joined the Utah National Guard as a round wheel mechanic. Afterward, he started his career in the fine art of cooking. He moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan and became a chef. In January 2005 he started his own business running a small coffee shop in Salt Lake City called the "Copper Kettle." His homemade crab-shrimp soup was a favorite. After working at the Copper Kettle, Dan finally found his calling working on Hyundai cars. This was his career until his death. Dan was fun loving and caring. He had a sharp wit, easy laugh, and was easily befriended. He loved motorcycles, playing his electric guitar, fishing, and was passionate about paragliding. He seemed to be happiest in the sky. He was loved by his family and friends and will be greatly missed. Dan is survived by his parents, Dave and RaNae Garretson, two brothers--Dale (Debbie) Garretson and David Ralls, and five sisters--D'anne (Don) Blackburn, Lyn (Michael) Jensen, Jana (William) Rees, Cristy (Jon) Christiansen, and Lari (Rob) Fitzgerald. He is also survived by his niece, Tamera Garretson, and by many other nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lydean Yancey Garretson, and by his nephew, Michael Rees. Funeral services and burial will be Tuesday, June 28, 2016 at 11:00 AM. at the Utah Veterans Cemetery Chapel & Memorial Park, 17111 South Camp Williams Road, Bluffdale, Utah. Funeral Directors - Premier Funeral Services, Midvale, Utah.