Racing Legend, Danny Byrd 08, passed away on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at the age of 86.

Beloved partner of Mae Sweet.

Loving father of Debbie (Robert) Trimai and Sherry (Gordy) Hopper and stepfather of Jill Sweet.

Proud grandfather of Kevin Venier, Sara Hopper, and Tyler Sylvester.

Danny was very dedicated to his work as a Promotional Supervisor for Ford Motor Company and Lincoln. He would travel around the country setting up the large displays for the Auto Shows. Many times, Mae joined Danny for these trips, however, she did get to do more sightseeing than Danny due to his work. Along with the Auto Shows, Danny also worked on the vehicle brochures many of us have seen in the car dealerships.

In addition to working full time and raising his children, Danny was born with racing in his blood and proudly won multiple ARCA championships from 1965 through 1978.  Danny drove in a few NASCAR races; however, he had a far more successful racing career in ARCA. Danny was ranked among the best Midwest late model drivers of his era. Byrd has won over 200 races at tracks throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.  Danny was most known for driving a Ford #08, which is also where the nickname "Danny Byrd 08" came from. He had a very successful racing career and was inducted into the Michigan ARCA Hall of Fame.

Danny loved cars and his love for cars could be seen in his dedication to his careers – with Ford Motor Company and Racing.  He was a happy person, never had a mean word for anyone and loved to laugh.

Danny and Mae also enjoyed traveling in their motorhome – their favorite destinations were California and Florida.  They enjoyed Florida so much that they later purchased a home in Florida and became snowbirds.

Later in life he became a big John Wayne fan and loved watching his movies.

Danny will be dearly missed by his fans, friends and family.

Visitation will be on Friday, September 24, 2021 from 3:00PM until 8:00PM at the Taylor Chapel of Howe-Peterson located at 9800 Telegraph Rd.  Service will be at 11:00AM on Saturday, September 25, 2021 at the funeral home.  Interment to follow at Cadillac Memorial Gardens West.

Interment to follow at Cadillac Memorial Gardens West.

Should you desire, contributions may be sent to the Alzheimer's Association.