Daniel Joseph Barella

Daniel (Dan) Joseph Barella, age 44, passed away on Friday, September 16th, while surrounded by Friends and Family.
Daniel had a larger-than-life personality. He spent his formative years in Fort Collins, with his mother Jan Mowery, father Frank Barella and sisters Michelle Iannacone and Valerie Venter. Growing up in the country was something Daniel was deeply proud of. He learned hard work from his father and learned how to be a gentleman from his grandfather Ted. Daniel was an athlete, lettering in Football, Basketball, and Track. Daniel loved having a good time and excelled at it! A party at the Barella's barn or dressing up for a costume party at Gallup are memories that many share.
Daniel graduated from Colorado State University and moved to San Diego. Daniel was out with his sister Michelle one night when he met his future wife, Tasha. He called his father the next day and told him 'I have met the woman I will someday marry'. Daniel and Tasha went on to have 4 of the most beautiful and talented children, Talia (16), Lexi (13), Kellan (8), and Farah (6). Daniel absolutely cherished his family and boasted about them constantly. Daniel carried on the tradition of costume parties even as a family-man. Halloween took months to plan but the outcome of their family-coordinated costumes were nothing short of "legendary". Daniel and the family moved back to Colorado where they settled in Steamboat Springs. He felt like the mountains were home – Camping, Fishing, Snowboarding, and Golfing. He was also a proud Broncos Fan through and through.
Daniel will be remembered by all as a great man with an amazing smile and infectious laugh. Someone who had a passion for music and an extensive record collection to show for it! He impacted the lives of so many because of his loyalty and his kind and generous heart. He will be missed by so many.
Daniel is survived by his wife, Tasha; daughters Talia, Lexi, and Farah; his son Kellan; his mother Jan; sisters Michelle and Valerie; grandmother Donna; step-family; in-laws and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father, Frank; and grandfather Ted.
Please join us for a Celebration of Life gathering on Sunday, October 2nd from 1-4pm at The Covey – 2661 W. Co Rd 64, Fort Collins, CO 80524. Please bring your stories to share as we know there are many.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: High Altitude Basketball, P.O. Box 773836, Steamboat Springs, CO 80477. Daniel was a proud coach for the children's basketball program with High Altitude.
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