Salt Lake City, Utah – Daniel Wayne Cutler, former principal of Cottonwood High School and beloved educator, passed away from natural causes on Tuesday, September 17, 2024. He was 87 years old. Born in Salt Lake City on January 16, 1937, Daniel was the eldest of four children, raised by his parents Harmon Reynolds and Lillian Martha Rice Cutler.
After graduating from Ben Lomond High School in 1955, Daniel served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Ontario, Canada, in 1957. Upon his return, he pursued higher education at Utah State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1962 and a Master of Education in 1966.
In 1961, Daniel married Sylvia Childs in The Salt Lake Temple, and the couple celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary this past June. Throughout his distinguished 40-year career in education, Daniel served as a seminary instructor and later became principal of Cottonwood High School, where he impacted thousands of students. He also taught at Evergreen Jr. High and Olympus High.
Aside from his professional career, Daniel was deeply committed to his faith, serving in several church leadership roles, including Bishop and Stake Patriarch. He was also an avid outdoorsman, enjoying time with his family, helping others, and working in his yard.
Daniel is survived by his wife, Sylvia, five children, thirteen grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, and one brother.
Funeral services for Daniel Wayne Cutler will be held today, Monday, September 23, 2024, at the Patriot Ridge Ward in Herriman, Utah, at 11 a.m., with a viewing starting at 9:30 a.m. He will be laid to rest at the Herriman City Cemetery, and the services will be streamed online for those unable to attend.
Heartfelt Tributes on Social Media
Maren Maxfield Cutler shared her deep sorrow on Facebook, stating, “My family is heartbroken by the loss of Greg’s dad this week. He was truly one of the greatest men I’ve known—such a loving and supportive grandpa and father-in-law. He will be deeply missed.”
Other friends and family members also expressed their condolences. Heidi Hortin commented, “Sending love and prayers, sorry for your loss.” Ashley Bunce Gibson added, “I am so sorry for your loss! I really enjoyed seeing him at Baseball. He is such a sweet man! Love and prayers to your beautiful family.”
Chris Porter shared, “Condolences to the family. He was always such a great presence supporting his grandson. He will be missed for sure.”
Many others, including Angela Rauthe Bennett, Jami Hackley, and Brandt Helm, also expressed their support, sharing messages of love and sympathy during this difficult time.