Daniel Max May

Daniel Max May, 80, died peacefully Wednesday, May 12, 2026 after a valiant fight from a terminal illness.

Born to Wanda and Frank May on October 6, 1945 in Casper, Wyoming, he was the youngest of four boys. Dan spent most of his childhood in Middleton, Idaho on their family farm, where he gained his sense of adventure. He spent hours exploring the fields and building his tolerance of being shocked by their electric fence. Dan even learned to drive the tractor by age eight.

He graduated from Middleton High School, and lettered in football, wrestling, track, and baseball. He was also the lead in the school play and won the State Championship in wrestling.

Following high school, he attended Brigham Young University in Provo before serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in England. His devotion to his faith remained a constant throughout his life, and he returned to BYU to complete his studies after his service.

While at university, he met Shellie Norton, and they were married for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple in 1969. Together, they raised six children whom he loved unconditionally “and will continue to love dearly beyond the veil”: Russell (Lola) May, Alex (Gerrit) van Langeveld, Ross (Jolie) May, Rebecca May, Matthew (Amanda) May, and Ted (Samantha) May. His family grew to include 21 grandchildren including one cherished angel baby.

Dan spent six years in the Army Reserve and ranked as Staff Sergeant. In 1972, he started teaching at Jordan High School in Sandy, Utah, as an AP US History teacher and Social Studies department head. He helped coach many different sports: cross country, football for 18 years, and wrestling for 25 years as head coach. Dan was also the Peer Leadership Team advisor and had various department positions. His 39 years at Jordan High School was more than just teaching history, but also setting kids on the right path. We couldn’t go anywhere without running into former students that would come up to us, yelling “Coach May!”, thrilled to see him and had stories about how he changed their lives. It was humbling to witness his massive influence.

As a father, he played an active role in raising his children and tried to ensure his sense of adventure was carried on. Dan would often be found wrestling with his sons, carrying his daughters through rivers, camping, or exploring the outdoors with his family. Disneyland was a favorite family vacation, and he would often drive most of the way there and back as his family slept. He had a great sense of humor and would keep those around him laughing no matter the situation.

After retirement, he cherished the time spent with his many grandchildren: Tori, Isabel, Josh, Antayla, Landon, Jon, Ryndee, Maddi (Emma), Kennedi, Kara, Kelton, Cimaya, Serenity, Zane, Liberty, Brooklynn, Nick, Zack, Amelia, Henry.

He was preceded in death by his parents Wanda and Frank May, his brothers: Joe, Reed, and Dean, and his grandchild Rowan.

Dan and Shellie shared a love for travel, exploring the Oregon Coast, various National Parks, Hawaii, and international destinations like Scotland and England. Their shared faith also led them to serve a mission together in Ireland.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the staff at Hospice, with a special thanks to his nurse, Ben. Over the last two years, Ben became a dear friend whose dedicated care ensured that Dan's passing was peaceful.

A man of great strength and unwavering faith, Dan was a gentle and tenderhearted soul who stood firm when necessary. His dedication to his priesthood duties, including his service on the high council and in the bishopric, was a cornerstone of his life. Even during his last days, his devotion was evident by continuing to lead Shellie in their nightly prayer.

Dan deeply cherished the many lasting friendships he formed through his decades at Jordan High School and his extensive church service.

Dan lived a faithful and wonderful life full of adventure and care for those he loved. He will be deeply missed.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 275 East 10600 South, Sandy, Utah 84070. Friends and family are invited to gather at 10:00 a.m. preceding funeral services to visit and share memories. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at the Sandy City Cemetery, 700 East 9000 South, Sandy, Utah 84070.