Daniel John Smith, December 1959-June 2024. “Pug,” as some knew him in his younger years. Big Dan the BBQ Man, or just Big Dan.

He was born in Burney, Calif. to Elizabeth and John Smith. He grew up in a small town with his grandparents, parents and sister, Katherine. As a kid Dan would help his grandfather out in his restaurant prepping potatoes, mostly. From there he would grow to have a knack for BBQing.

When Dan got older he joined the Army and served our country well. Dan lived a life full of adventures. He had jobs including fishing and crabbing in Alaska, Washington and California; mechanical jobs; cooking in various places in the off-season; spending the last 25 years working with Bob, lumbering redwoods here in Arcata.

He loved his community. Going to Crabs games was one of the many things he loved to do besides cooking, fishing, hunting, shooting pool and being known to have some drinks at the local bars.

Big Dan loved to cook. He would cook for everyone. He would cook for birthdays, weddings or just because. He had a heart of gold and some of the best barbecue around.

He is survived by his sister Katie and nephew Zach, Jesse Adams, and Tabatha Riley.

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