Daniel Sylvester Ayala
Daniel “Dan the Man” Sylvester Ayala, born in Pittsburgh, Pa., on Aug. 30, 1934, passed into the Lord’s eternal presence on Aug. 8, 2025.
Dan was a longtime resident of Northeast Ohio, where he served for decades as an electrician by trade. He also served in the U.S. Air Force from 1953 to 1957.
He enjoyed golfing, karaoke, softball, collecting old relics, playing cards and vacationing with family. He especially enjoyed bowling with his sons, nephews and daughter.
Beloved father of Laura Ann Ayala (Rick) Simpkins, Daniel (Jen) Anthony, Derrick (Vicky) Ralph, Darrin (Aimee) Edward and Sheila Boling. Also, a devoted grandfather of 13 and great-grandfather of nine.
Dan is also survived by his faithful siblings, Mercedes Bradley, Cecilia (Dan) Winer and Paul Ayala; his devoted nephew, Johnny (Connie) Ayala; and 20 other nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind four cats he adored: Jack, Carson, Kitt and Buster One.
Dan was preceded in death by his loving parents, Ralph and Anna (nee Boyer) Ayala; brothers, Ray and Will; sister, Jean (Bill) Stewart; sister-in-law, Barbara; ex-wife, Carol Reiss; and long-term companion, Cheryl Mezera.
Visitation will be held for family and friends on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon. A Catholic funeral mass will be held following visitation at 1 p.m. at St. Anselm Church, 12969 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township. Following mass, there will be a private celebration of life for immediate family only.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Harmony Hospice of Cuyahoga County. Direct donations can be made by phone at (216)-232-9980.
Dan’s life was filled with kindness, love and close family relationships. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
This obituary was lovingly provided by the family.
Arrangements are entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
