Danial David Griffith

Daniel David Griffith, known as Dan or Danny to some, passed peacefully in New Philadelphia, Ohio after a courageous battle with cancer. Dan was born on June 4, 1972 in Medina Ohio, and was a proud graduate of Girard High School, class of 1990. He carried the spirit of his hometown throughout his life. A true wild child at heart, Dan was known for his storytelling-often sharing the most outrageous and unforgettable adventures he had experienced alongside his best friends.
Growing up, Dan was heavily involved in the roller skating world, where he competed competitively and discovered a passion that would shape many meaningful connections -including meeting his wife, Michelle (Woerther) Griffith.
Dan was always eager to explore new paths. As a young adult, he moved to Jacksonville, Florida where he picked up bartending and enjoyed time under the sun with his brother. Eventually, he moved back to Ohio, where he worked as a baker and later found joy as a football referee. He was known to many as the friendly neighborhood bus driver for Salem City Schools, a role he truly cherished. He loved talking with people and building connections within the community, a quality that led him to teaching drivers education and becoming a state examiner at Tallmadge Driving Schools of Ohio. His easygoing nature and sense of humor left a lasting impact on students.
Dan was a passionate sports fan, especially when it came to the Pittsburgh Steelers and Ohio State football. One of his greatest joys was attending football games with his children-two of whom went to The Ohio State University. He was ecstatic every year to make the trip, not only for the excitement of the football games but more so to support his children in their academic endeavors proudly.
Dan was most proud of his five children, Corey, Meghan, Emma, Dana and Joseph. He talked about them every chance he could. His children will forever hold close the memories of his unwavering support, infectious laugh, humor, and love.
Above all, Dan's heart belonged to his family. He is survived by his children, Corey, Meghan, Emma, Dana, and Joey, who will remember him as the most loving and fun dad. His wife, Michelle, with whom he shared many cherished memories, his brother, Christopher (Tammy) Griffith, his sister Valerie (Dan) Staudacher, brother in law Chris (Nancy) Woerther as well as nephews David, CJ, Jonathan, Lee, Scott, Nathaniel and nieces Mindy, Jessica and Teresa.
Dan was preceded in death by his father, David Griffih, his mother, Kathleen Griffith (Prystash), and grandparents. As Dan often sang alongside his daughters in one of his favorite Rod Stewart songs, "In my heart you will remain, forever young. " A memorial service will be held at 1 pm on January 17, 2026 at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 251 S. Broadway Ave. Salem, Ohio 44460 with a gathering at the fellowship hall to follow. Arrangements provided by Heritage Cremation & Burial Society (330) 875-5770 To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Danial, please visit our floral store.