‘Last call’: Remembering Danny Coughlin

FAIRVIEW PARK, Ohio (WJW) — When you asked Danny Coughlin how he was doing, one of his favorite things to say was, “Better to be seen than to be viewed.”

Well on this Monday, Danny, we’re all going to sadly view you. But not through tears, as you would have hated that and told us to take that somewhere else.

Instead, we’re going to smile and remember who you really were.

A great writer, author and teller of tales. The man who despised newsroom computers, the commissioner of high school sports, the husband, father, doting grandfather and everybody’s friend.

It didn’t matter if you knew Danny from the old days at Saint Ed’s or from his days working the sports beat around Cleveland.

“You couldn’t forget Danny once you met him you couldn’t forget him for the rest of your life he brought that imprint of joy and happiness and carrying for other people,” Fox 8 Anchor and longtime friend Lou Maglio said.

Danny knew everyone. From athletes to zoo keepers, all it took was one conversation and Danny was your immediate friend.

“Dad loved people from all walks of life even, Ignatius guys,” Dan’s daughter Mary Jeffery said with a laugh. “He found endless joy in finding zany and unusual characters and turned over every rock to find them. My brother John says my dad would take the time to get to know people and bring that person’s story to life in the most fun and uplifting way possible.”

Daniel Francis Coughlin was born on September 17, 1938. He was raised on the city’s westside and attended his beloved Saint Edward High School which he kept close ties with all his life.

He was a sportswriter, one of the best here at Fox 8. Danny was known for his gravely voice and quick wit that made people laugh.

“He went out of this world with all the optimism Saint Ed’s had beaten Saint Ignatius, the Guardians led the series, his grandsons won their final football games, and he made his departure before the Browns could spoil his weekend,” Mary said.

But all know Danny the sports guy.

It’s been a life well-lived with plenty of laughter and lots and lots of good friends.

Danny, it’s last call. Time to go home.

“My dad was an unforgettable man and there will never be another person like him,” Mary said.

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