In loving memory of

Daniel Cerione
February 2, 1965 - April 17, 2016

Danny (Dan) C. Cerione 51, of Pembroke Pines, Florida
Passed away on Sunday, April 17, 2016. He was born in Miami, FL On February 2, 1965 to Frank A. Cerione and Anne (Deluca) Cerione.

He attended St. Rose of Lima Grade School, Archbishop Curley H.S. and
Graduated from Miami Springs H.S. where he developed his love for football under legendary coach Buddy Goins. He Received a scholarship to play football at the University of Louisville from 1983-1987. He was fortunate to play his last two years for the Cardinals under another Legend Howard Schnellenberger and was named special teams player of the year in 1986. He was honored and proud to have played for such great coaches who helped him hone his skills and character both on and off the field.

Danny was preceded in death by his father Frank A. Cerione. He is survived by his beloved wife Melissa (Davidson) Cerione and his loving children Tyler and Ashley. He is further survived by his mother Anne Cerione and sister Carol Lewis (Jon), his brothers Joseph (Jay) and Frank. He had one niece and 7 nephews. Danny was a devoted and loving husband, father and friend. His family meant everything to him. He touched many lives and will be missed by all who knew him.

Danny worked for the Florida Marine Patrol (FWC), State Division of Insurance Fraud and recently retired as a special agent supervisor for the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). He fought a courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) a very debilitating disease both physically and mentally that has no cure or treatment.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 21, 2016 at Fred Hunter's Funeral Home 2401 S. University Drive Davie, FL 33316 from 6-8pm. A memorial mass will be held on Friday April 22, 2016 at 10:00am at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Miami Shores followed by a celebration of Danny's life and legacy at Miami Shores Country Club.

In Lieu of flowers, donations gratefully appreciated to Danny Cerione's Cure ALS Fund at ALSA.ORG

Tributes

Craig Mack wrote on May 8, 2016:

"We all loved Dan's generous spirit and great stories! The love and pride he showed for Melissa, Tyler, and Ashley were great examples for everyone! Love, The Mack Family"

Murray Davidson wrote on May 6, 2016:

"When we helped move my sister to Fl. I rode with Dan and Missy in her car. I will never forget that ride. Danny started telling a story to pass the time and it was one of the best stories ever. He made it all up as he went along and did a great job making a long ride enjoyable. Miss you"

Mike Cerione wrote on May 6, 2016:

"A great uncle and a great inspiration. I always looked up to you, and that will continue."

Haylie Davidson wrote on May 5, 2016:

"You were a great uncle. I love you and miss you so much. "

Andrea Davidson wrote on May 5, 2016:

"I will always cherish the memories and fun times our family has had in Ohio and Florida! I feel truly blessed to have known Danny. He was always easy to talk to and fun to be around! Love you and miss you always!"

Murray Davidson wrote on May 5, 2016:

"One memory I will always remember and cherish is when Danny played in the Pig Bowl and he let me be on the sidelines with him. He gave me the job to run his tee to him for every kickoff. I thought it was so cool to be able to go into The Canes locker room while he was getting ready for the game. I miss and love you. "

Stacy Underwood wrote on May 4, 2016:

"Danny was a great friend, i am so blessed that our paths crossed at the University of Louisville over 30 years ago. No matter the time that passed or the distance we always could pick up like we had seen each other yesterday. I will treasure so many great memories of Louisville football, Kentucky Derby, my visits to Florida, many great talks about life...but most of all I will remember his laughter and smile, his loyalty and fighting spirit! He was so proud of his family, his wife Melissa and Tyler and Ashley, his eyes lit up when telling a story about them, his love for them was undeniable! Rest in peace sweet friend."

Pat Davidson wrote on May 4, 2016:

"I never was too good at getting up and speaking in front of a crowd or knowing just what to say. DANNY gave me confidence and support and would write my speeches for me. Great guy he was the best. I love and miss him so much. OHIO DAD "

Jim Futch wrote on May 4, 2016:

"I met Dan when I was hired by FDLE. We immediately became close as we shared a love for the same things. The two most important of those being faith and family. Husband, Father, Son, Brother, Uncle, God Father, Friend, Coworker, Boss and an inspiration to all. Dan fulfilled all of these roles better than anyone. He taught us all so much by his own actions and inspired all who knew him to become a better person. RIP my brother, I'll miss you and love you always. "

Dennis Roadruck wrote on May 4, 2016:

"Danny was my Field Training Agent when I first began my career at FDLE. I knew quickly that we would become fast friends. His job was to teach me "the ropes" at FDLE, but he taught me so much more than that. Dan was a true friend, an amazing father, and loving husband. RIP my friend!"

Kathleen (Cerione) Cooper wrote on May 3, 2016:

"I have the honor of being Danny's oldest cousin on the Cerione side of the family. Danny the born the year I graduated high school and left NJ to attend college in KY. Since he grew up in FL, I rarely saw him unless Aunt Anne and Uncle Frank were visiting family in NJ and I just happened to be visiting at the same time. My time that I got to spend with Danny came after he graduated high school and got a football scholarship to the University of Louisville. We were living in Louisville at the time, and I was so excited to learn he was going to be attending U of L. Aunt Anne and Uncle Frank would fly up for the home games and we got to the games with them and cheer for Danny. I had a pin I would wear to the games that said, "My Cousin is #38". It was great getting to know him and sharing those times with him and his family. Danny will certainly be missed by all who knew and loved him, but his memory will live on through Tyler and Ashley. Rest in peace #38."

Billy and Kayleigh Davidson wrote on May 2, 2016:

"I have many fond memories of Danny while I was growing up. I was always so excited when I got to visit with Danny, Missy, Tyler, and Ashley, whether they came to Ohio or we went to Florida. One of my favorite memories is when he did a reading at our wedding. It meant so much to the both of us that he participated in one of the most important days of our lives. Although our world won't be the same without you, we thank you for making it a better one for all of us and are so proud to be a part of your family. "

Lora Mills ki wrote on May 2, 2016:

"A favorite memory is of Danny and Missy's wedding. We had so much fun, they were so very much in love that we couldn't have been happier for them. Cheers to Danny and all the love he gave!!! "

Pedro & Marieta Pidermann wrote on May 2, 2016:

"We were so saddened to hear the news of your passing ~ the world lost a GREAT man who was a son, a brother, a husband, a friend but most importantly a AMAZING father! We are so grateful that we have fun memories from the good ole Pig Bowl football days!! I will keep your wife, Missy and your children and your whole family in my thoughts and prayers ~ sleep well with the Angels ~ until we meet again Danny Boy ��"

Dave Root wrote on May 2, 2016:

"Two memories I'll always cherish: Dan bringing a tray of lasagna over the day we got back from the hospital with our newborn (our first) and saying: 'Someone did this for me and Melissa when our kids were born, you'll appreciate it." We did so much in fact that we paid this service forward to our friends in subsequent years. AND . . Dan and I enjoying a bottle of Scotch while playing poker Christmas eve, only to be interrupted by a phone call from Melissa (it was past midnight) reminding him that Santa Claus had a bike to assemble - he told me the next day it took him 5 times as long to assemble given the 'state' he was in. Cheers my brother, we love you!"

Sherri, Chelsea, Mitch, Carrigan,Max wrote on May 2, 2016:

"I will always remember Dan for being so sweet to my kids. His warm, inviting smile made it easy to sit next to him and chat for hours because they could feel he truly cared about what they had to say. Thanks for being such a good role model. I will also remember his passion for his family, whether it was on the sidelines supporting Tyler in sports or cheering Ashley on in cheerleading or the simple look he gave his wife as he listened to every word she said with admiration and love in his eyes. We will never forget him and feel blessed to have known him. "

Tom Walker wrote on May 2, 2016:

"I am touched by all the tributes about his life. Melissa Cerione was our daughter, Megan Walker's 4th grade teacher at Hawks Rise Elementary School. I am sorry for you and your family loss. I am praying for you all. If you need anything please let me know. Take care, Tom Walker"

Cheryl Davidson wrote on May 1, 2016:

"Danny loved to visit us in Ohio. 1st because of all the happy times together, 2nd because I cook with butter! Danny said, '"Let the eatings begin!" In our hearts forever."

Hank Barnet and the Barnet family wrote on May 1, 2016:

"Danny - I will always remember all the great times with you and your family. From you and I chasing bad guys in Miami (with me occasionally wrecking a car or boat) to spending the holidays together (Halloween hay rides, Noche Buena & fighting with unruly neighbors) with our families in Tallahassee. Your spirit lives on through your beautiful children and adoring wife. You touched a lot of lives and we are all better for it. Rest in peace my brother."

Patrick Kennedy wrote on May 1, 2016:

"Danny I will always remember you playing football with you and remember the good times my brother may you rest in peace and we will see each other again and fought a great fight my brother and God bless the rest of your family. "

Patrick Kennedy wrote on May 1, 2016:

"Danny I will always remember you playing football with you and remember the good times my brother may you rest in peace and we will see each other again and fought a great fight my brother and God bless the rest of your family. "

Terri Walker wrote on May 1, 2016:

"Even though I didn't personally know Danny Cerione, I am touched by all the tributes about his life. Melissa Cerione was our daughter, Megan Walker's 4th grade teacher at Hawks Rise Elementary School. I know this must be a very difficult time for you and your two children Melissa. I will say that I have lost both of my parents and my sister and grieving is a slow process. I am here for you if you ever want a person to talk to. Try to keep busy, pray, and if you need help, ask for it. Everyone cares for you and your family. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Take care, Terri Walker"

Dan Gangwer wrote on Apr 28, 2016:

"Totally shocked. Had no idea of his illness. I will always have great memories of the laughs at UofL.....and never missing All My Children with Danny and Kirk before leaving for practice! My prayers are with his family. Great guy! "

Your loving wife, Melissa wrote on Apr 25, 2016:

"My sweet and loving husband. Ours was a TRUE love story that never waned over almost 23 years of marriage. You are at peace now and free from the horrible disease that robbed you of so many things. It brings me solace to know you are healthy once again."

Terry Alfonso wrote on Apr 24, 2016:

"So sorry to hear of Danny's passing. Sending prayers for Danny and his family."

Ron Blaine wrote on Apr 22, 2016:

"Danny Thank you for being a good friend to a new kid in school. We had great times at football, the beach, concerts, Canada, that Detroit Tigers game, and so many other things. You will be missed. God Bless you and your family."

Alan Kennedy wrote on Apr 21, 2016:

"Danny, I will remember the good times we had in high school playing football and soccer. Rest in peace brother you fought the good fight."

Jessica M. Bianchi wrote on Apr 21, 2016:

"Dan will always be remembered as heroic and courageous in his fight with ALS. On behalf of the ALS Association FL Chapter and the Broward ALS Resource Support Group please know you are in our thoughts and we are sending love and support during this difficult time. We will continue to honor Dan by leaving no stone unturned until we find a cure. "

Kathleen DeLuca wrote on Apr 21, 2016:

"Rest in peace my dear cousin. My thoughts, prayers and love go out to all of the family."

Dave Triplett wrote on Apr 20, 2016:

"All of my memories of Danny are good ones!"

Don Pumphrey, Jr. wrote on Apr 20, 2016:

"I met Danny during the Florida Marine Patrol Academy in 1989, Tallahassee, Florida. During the academy courtroom presentation section we were on a mock trial together as attorneys. One of the most wonderful and special people I have known in my life. We graduated the Academy together that same year (FMP Class 13) and were both stationed at the Miami Office after graduation. Danny always had a smile and a genuine heart. We were fortunate enough to stay in touch and reconnected when he became an SAS here in Tallahassee and both our oldest children attended freshman year at Chiles High School together. We had many great stories to share and shared a bond not many people are fortunate enough to share in a lifetime. I have lost a dear friend as I am sure many others have as well. God Bless you Danny, thank you for being my friend."

The Sesto Family wrote on Apr 20, 2016:

"Our Thoughts and Prayers "

Yamil Cabrera wrote on Apr 20, 2016:

"I met Dan and family when they first moved into the neighborhood back in 2001. We used to hang out outside one of our three neighbor's houses while the kids trick or treated or played outside. We were laughing and cracking jokes and sometimes drinking beer. We also had impromptu meals involving the three families. We were sad to see them move and were happy to find out they were moving back into the neighborhood except the circumstances were not ideal, as he was diagnosed with such a horrible disease. I always get upset seeing such good people leaving this earth and many bad ones staying but he is in a better place with our Lord and he'll be watching over us. Brother you will be missed by many. "

Fred Hunter Memorial Services wrote on Apr 20, 2016:

"Davidson Hall, oh that car, Boston, Unconditional friendship always, your strength & courage & teaching me how to make " pasta" the right wAy-you didn't believe in the country way, throw it on the wall & stick test.... Proud is not a big enough word, courageous, & the love for your friends & family. You will always be a Cardinal & carried in our hearts! I will fight for us both. So proud of your strength. Strength, comfort, & peace to the family. Thanks for being you! "

Jane Spinney wrote on Apr 20, 2016:

"My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Danny's friends and family."

Tony Demma wrote on Apr 20, 2016:

"I knew Dan and his wonderful family for several years when they lived in Tallahassee. I will remember his infectious smile, his zest for life, and his love for his family. Dan lived a great life, albeit for too short a time. I am glad I had a chance to know him. Rest in peace."

A Friend wrote on Apr 19, 2016:

"Rest in PEACE "

Carol Frederick wrote on Apr 19, 2016:

"I will miss your great smile and your friendship Dan. My prayers are with you and your family."

Jane Clark Myers wrote on Apr 19, 2016:

"I have so many great memories of our friendship in high school. One in particular comes to mind like: "How many people can we fit into Danny's car to cruise the Ft. Lauderdale Strip on Spring Break?" ; ) He was a great guy through and through and I know he will be missed by many friends and his family. Our memories live on. Love you Danny! "

Michael Jessee wrote on Apr 19, 2016:

"my other brother...i love you and miss you. truly, you are one, of a only a handful, of the best i have ever known...rest in peace, my dear friend"

Kenny Matthews wrote on Apr 19, 2016:

"A wonderful family man and friend. Always a smile on your face. "

Dickie Soloperto wrote on Apr 18, 2016:

"Rest in Peace Brother........."