Danny (Dan) W. Mellick, 82

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Danny W. (Dan) Mellick on Sept. 19, 2023. After battling numerous health issues throughout his life, Dan died from heart failure at 82 years of age.

Dan was born June 22, 1941, to Albert and Lolita (Ricketts) Mellick in the Rockwood Clinic Hospital in Spokane, Wash. Dan’s early years were spent in Chatteroy, Wash., on a beautiful cattle ranch with the Little Spokane River running through their property. These years were influential in his learning of the value of family and friends, hard work and responsibility. In later years, his family moved to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where they owned and operated the Silver Spruce Motel. Dan graduated from Coeur d’Alene High School, North Idaho College, the University of Idaho and Whitworth College.

Dan’s main occupation was that of teacher and principal. He also worked summers for the Forest Service, played drums with various bands, taught drum lessons, taught driver’s education, and gave Idaho state driving tests to numerous people. Dan impacted many lives through his kind, caring heart, pleasant personality and his great sense of humor. Because Dan ate out so much, he was treated like family at local restaurants. His eyes would light up when he saw his family, friends and former students and their parents: THEN his stories would begin!

Dan and Linda were married June 6, 1976, at Priest Lake, Idaho. They were blessed with the birth of Danny Lee in 1977, followed by David in 1980. Dan and Linda shared a love for the outdoors. They shared a love for camping, fishing and exploring South Dakota, Montana and Idaho. Experiencing the quiet beauty of Yellowstone National Park in the winter and driving the remote Magruder Trail are treasured memories.

Danny Lee will carry on the family’s drumming legacy. Dan was so proud of Danny Lee’s drum skills and loved listening to him play. Dan held great pride in David’s Ph.D. in electrical engineering. The day Dan became a Papa for Elizabeth and Sophia was a dream come true! Dan loved counting beats for Elizabeth while watching her dance. Sophia was Papa’s cowgirl.

We, as a family, know how special he was and how lucky we were to have him in our lives. Survivors include his wife, Linda; son Danny (Kristina) with grandchildren Riley, Tyler and Alisa; son David (Michelle) with grandchildren Elizabeth, Sophia, Alisa and Thomas; sister Connie Dempsey with nephew Larry, and special cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and his niece, Carmen Rene Dempsey.

Dan will be buried in historic Pleasant View Cemetery, where his great-grandparents and other relatives rest. A private graveside service will be held in the future. The family invites you to share memories, thoughts or pictures of Dan at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers or gifts, we welcome you to make a donation to Pleasant View Cemetery at Washington Trust Bank, 1601 E. Seltice Way, Post Falls, ID 83854. The money raised will help in the preservation of the cemetery, which was dear to his heart and the Mellick family.

Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with the care of arrangements.