Daniel Wayne Cotla passed away peacefully at his home on June 20, 2025. He was 74 years of age. He was born on Sept. 26, 1950, in San Francisco, California, to Italian/Spanish immigrants. He grew up in the city working multiple jobs including a family-run liquor store, Marine World, Macy’s, and 10 years as a forklift operator at Union Air Transport in Burlingame, California.
In 1989, he retired and then moved from San Francisco, California, to Sumner, Washington, in 1993. Daniel spent the rest of his time working for his community and church, lending those a hand who needed home improvement or a simple ride to their destination. His greatest passions were building dollhouses, framing pictures, and making jewelry boxes. His pride and joy was gardening and watching his colorful flowers bloom.
Daniel was a great history buff as much as he loved sharing his knowledge of the latest current events. High above anything else was studying true Bible history and making his Savior the ultimate top priority of his time.
Daniel is survived by his four children, Mark Hazelwood (56), Joyce Skillman (54), Teresa Blais (49), and Marlene Cotla (45), along with his seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Daniel will be reunited with his wife, Nancy, on the anniversary of their 50 years of marriage. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by the generous ways of going the extra mile for others who needed that special hand.
A private burial service will be held.
