A Half-Century of Educational Dedication

Sherm Danielson, who dedicated over 50 years to education in the Stillwater, Minnesota area, passed away on December 23 at the age of 77. Beginning his career as an elementary school teacher in 1970, he went on to serve as a coach at various levels and as an administrator, maintaining his passion for education and sports until his final moments—literally wearing his Stillwater Ponies cap until the end.

His wife of 57 years, Yvonne Danielson, recalled, "He never let go of his coaching mindset until the very end. He wore his Stillwater Ponies cap almost until the day he died."

Wide-Ranging Coaching Career

Danielson started as an elementary school teacher before coaching multiple sports including basketball, baseball, football, and track at levels ranging from youth leagues to middle and high school. He later served as assistant principal at Oakland Junior High and Stillwater Junior High, and from 1997 to 2003, he worked as the activities director for Stillwater Area High School.

Andy Olson, who was wrestling and girls' soccer coach at the time, said, "He was always supportive. The fact that he allowed me to continue coaching while serving in the National Guard is just one example of how he adjusted schedules and made time for other people."

Work Ethic Rooted in Farm Life

Danielson graduated from Dassel High School in 1966 and went on to Augsburg College, where he played football for four years. The strong work ethic formed during his upbringing on a farm remained a driving force throughout his life.

Yvonne shared, "Except for the last week and a half, he was always moving. He kept walking up and down the hallways at the nursing home." Even after retirement, he maintained an active lifestyle through golf and cycling, and continued his coaching career well beyond his administrative retirement.

"Academics weren't his specialty, but he knew so much about sports that he felt he could contribute to society," his wife reflected.

Visitation will be held Saturday, January 10, starting at 10 a.m. at Bradshaw Funeral Home in Stillwater, with a memorial service at noon.