Daniel Irwin

Daniel Ward Irwin, 59, of Cleveland, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Dan was born on November 11, 1965, in Newburgh, New York, to the late Sharon Aileen Tice Irwin and Ronald LeRoy Irwin. He grew up on the family farm in Spring Glen, NY, where he developed a lifelong love for the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, and exploring nature were more than hobbies - they became the foundation for how he connected with others, especially his children. Later in life, he would walk those same fields and woods with them, teaching not just about nature, but also about the stars above - combining his love for the Earth and sky.

He worked for over 20 years with the Orange County Department of Public Works in New York before relocating. For the past decade, Dan worked as a truck driver with Gateway Distribution - a job he truly loved. He found joy in the open road, discovering new places, and providing for his family with quiet pride.

Dan had a deep appreciation for history and often shared that passion with those around him. Whether through reading, storytelling, or visiting historical places, he found meaning and perspective in the past - always curious, always learning.

At home in Tennessee, Dan embraced life with his grandchildren and was rarely happier than when he was behind the grill. Like his mother before him, he believed that food was a way to the heart - and many hearts were won over by his meals and his warmth.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Heath Irwin. He is survived by:

 His daughter Shannon Marie Irwin Plaza and her husband Joe Plaza, and their son Landon Plaza, with another son on the way

 His son Justin Gerald Irwin and his wife Stephanie Irwin, and their daughters Ayla Irwin and Evelyn Irwin

 His daughter Victoria Aileen Irwin and her children Auria Ohmnacht and LeRoy Sutton

 His daughter Erica Jane Martzen

 His son Christopher Ward Irwin

 His brother James Irwin, and James's children Emily Aitken and Zachary Irwin

 His sister-in-law Yola Irwin, and her children Anthony Irwin, Rosamaria Irwin, and Adrianna Irwin

As requested by Dan, no public memorial service will be held. A private service will be held with his children and closest family and friends.

Dan will be remembered for his quiet strength, his deep love of nature, his ability to listen and teach, and his unwavering devotion to his family. His legacy lives on in his children, grandchildren, and the many lives he touched along the way.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in Daniel's memory.