Early Life, Family and Friends
Born on August 5, 1980, in Torrance, California, Daniel Thompson grew up with a soft spot for the nearby port town of San Pedro. He often joked that San Pedro was his true hometown because he loved the sea breeze and the local vibe.
His school years were spent in Riverside, where he attended both middle and high school. The friendships he forged there proved lifelong; many of those classmates remained in touch right up to his passing on June 30, 2025.
Family was the center of Danny’s world. He shared a close bond with his mother, Jeanette, and his brother, Matt. Over the years, he built a warm, supportive network that included aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends who admired his kindness.
Career, Passions, and Legacy
For a quarter‑century, Danny worked as “the parts guy” in the trucking industry. Colleagues remember him as meticulous, reliable, and genuinely proud of his work. He loved the rhythm of the warehouse, the hum of engines, and the camaraderie among the crew.
Outside the warehouse, Danny’s passions shone brightly. He was an avid Angels supporter, never missing a home run, and a die‑hard Philadelphia Eagles fan who rallied every Sunday. His enthusiasm for sports extended to his children’s activities. He cheered Kayla at every volleyball match and traveled with sons Ryan and Darren to their baseball tournaments, often manning the grill at the sidelines.
Speaking of grilling, Danny’s culinary experiments were legendary. He treated recipes as suggestions, sprinkling extra seasoning, smearing sauce, or tossing in unexpected herbs. Friends recall the mouth‑watering aromas drifting from his backyard—evidence that a little boldness goes a long way on the grill.
He leaves behind three children who inherited his love for sports and good food: daughter Kayla, who keeps his volleyball spirit alive, and sons Ryan and Darren, who carry on the family’s baseball tradition. Danny’s mother, Jeanette, his brother, Matt, and a wide circle of relatives will feel his absence deeply.
Above all, Danny will be remembered as a devoted son, brother, father, and friend. His life was marked by steady work, fierce loyalty to family and friends, and a zest for simple pleasures like a perfectly seasoned steak or a thrilling game night. Those who knew him will miss his laughter, his generosity, and his unwavering dedication to the people he loved.
