



1953
-
2026

Daryl Louis Grimm (73) passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026, after a courageous journey with Mantle Cell Lymphoma and Alzheimer’s, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Throughout his illness, he faced every challenge with courage, resilience, and incredible strength, even during the hardest of times.
He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Grime; his stepmother, Doris; his mother, Bernadette; and his stepfather, Sam DeMare.
Daryl is survived by his two beloved daughters and their husbands, Trisha DeSantis (Dennis) of Aurora, CO and Traci Lindsey (David) of Paradise Valley, AZ; his four treasured grandchildren, Kalia, Julius, Adriana, and Rafaela, whom he loved immensely, his sisters, Donna Thilgen (Bob) of Omaha, NE, Charleen Larkin (Larry) of St. Joseph, MO, Caryl Welch of Kirkland, WA and his stepsister, Jan Peitzmeier (Dan) of Omaha, NE. He also leaves behind his favorite cousin and lifelong friend, Larry Siegrist, along with extended family and many dear friends whose lives he touched throughout the years.
Professionally, Daryl began his career in the food industry, working for Wrigley’s and Coca-Cola, before discovering a new passion in the optical industry. A natural salesman with undeniable charm, he spent more than 27 years selling glasses and, along the way, turning many clients into lifelong friends. His charismatic personality, quick wit, and genuine care for people made him a beloved and memorable presence in the optical industry. He helped a generation of people see the world a little clearer.
A natural storyteller with a mischievous twinkle in his eye, Daryl was the ultimate life of the party. He possessed a legendary sense of humor, ranging from playful teasing to a famously “sick” sense of humor that could shock a room, make people laugh, and instantly break the ice. He had a way of making people feel like they were part of the fun, and no gathering was quite the same when Daryl was not there.
When he wasn’t making people laugh, Daryl was happiest in the great outdoors. He was an avid adventurer who loved hiking quiet trails, spending sunny days at the beach, paddling his kayak, boating with his best friends Mark and Geri, gardening, and listening to live music. But most of all, he valued time spent with family.
As a father and grandfather, Daryl was silly, fun, and full of energy. He brought a sense of playfulness and adventure to family life and had a way of making even ordinary moments memorable. His grandchildren were among the great joys of his life, and he cherished every moment he spent with them.
Daryl had an incredible gift for working with his hands. He was creative, resourceful, and could make or fix almost anything. He completed countless projects over the years, always finding a way to bring an idea to life. He was also an avid antique collector and loved yard sales, rarely passing up the chance to find a good deal.
After his diagnosis, Daryl was lovingly cared for by Trisha and her husband, Dennis, until he relocated to Arizona. Following the cross-country move, his daughter, Traci, and her husband, David, devoted themselves to his care and were by his side throughout his final years. Candice, his former wife and the mother of his daughters, remained a friend and continued to be a loving and compassionate source of care with unwavering support until the very end.
His legacy lives on in the stories, laughter, and memories shared by all who had the privilege and honor of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations in Daryl's memory to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at www.lightthenight.org. Or, celebrate Daryl in a way he would have appreciated: share a funny story, spend time with those you love, or raise a glass and enjoy a cocktail in his memory.
A private family remembrance will be held at a later date. Though he may no longer be by our side, Daryl’s love, laughter, mischievous spirit, and unforgettable personality will remain in our hearts forever.
In keeping with Dad’s wishes:
Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow; I am the diamond glints on the snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain; I am the gentle autumn’s rain.
When you awaken the morning's hush, I am the swift uplifting rush.
Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there; I did not die.





