Daniel (Danny Joe, DJ) Joe Coker, age 69, passed away at home surrounded by loved ones on May 27, 2024, after a 10 month battle with pancreatic cancer.

Danny was born in Santa Paula, California to Ludean (Woodruff) and Bill Coker on February 7, 1955.  He was a lifelong resident of Santa Paula where he graduated from Santa Paula High School in 1973.  He worked in masonry, as a truck driver and most recently in sales and estimating for Weatherford and T&T Trucking and Crane Service. He was also a member of the Ventura County Sheriff's Posse and Search and Rescue for over a decade.  When he was not working he enjoyed being outdoors including hunting, camping, fishing, and water skiing but nothing made him happier than being with his family and friends.

He was a loving husband to his wife of 15 years Nancy (Helmick) Coker, a dedicated father and step father to his children Nicki (Mike), Andy (Marilyn) and Katie (Scott) and his stepchildren, Caitlin (Henry) and Logan (Ashley). He was also incredibly close to his sister, Charlotte, and brother-in-law, David and nephew, Jonathan (Katriena).

Of all the titles Danny held during his life, "papa" was the one he cherished the most.  "Papa" will be greatly missed by his 11 grandchildren: Waylon, Fallyn, Remmi, Porter, Lane Daniel, Sadie, Jackson Daniel, Henry, Amelia, Mason and Hannah.

Danny had a charismatic presence.  His bear-like paws and memorable facial hair along with a jolly smile, roar of a laugh, charm, and humor would fill the room instantly. His stubborn independence, giving soul, work ethic, and value of family will be his legacy.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 29th at Bardsdale United Methodist Church, 1498 Bardsdale Ave Fillmore, CA 93015 at 11:00, reception to follow at Steckel Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Danny's honor to the Santa Paula Rotary via their website www.santapaularotary.org with the designating cause being the Christmas Basket Project.  Checks can be mailed to P.O. Box 809 Santa Paula, CA 93061 and made out to Santa Paula Rotary Benefit Fund with "Christmas Baskets" written in the memo.