Danny Joe Sunderland, 69, passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at UPMC of Williamsport, after a courageous five-year battle with pancreatic cancer.
He was born on August 28, 1956, in Lincoln, Nebraska, and was a son of Charlene (Patterson) Sunderland Keller and the late Ronald Gene Sunderland. Danny was a graduate of Williamsport Area High School, Class of 1974, and remained connected to the community throughout his life. He was a proud Army veteran for the 3rd infantry “The Old Guard” in Washington, D.C. and member of the Eagle 970 and VFW 844. Before his illness, he built a respected career as a skilled carpenter.
Danny enjoyed many pastimes that brought him happiness over the years. He loved playing quoit, working puzzles, fishing, hunting, and following NASCAR. He was also an enthusiastic fan of Nebraska sports, the Pirates, and the Steelers.
Along with his mother, he is survived by his sons, Eric Sunderland (Kim), and Devin Sunderland. He also leaves behind his sisters, Delene Sunderland and Debbie Bramhall (Alan); and his brother, Bill Keller (Julie). Danny was a proud grandfather to Morgan Smeal (Travis), and Elijah Paulhamus, and he cherished his great-grandchildren, Declan and Lenox. He also held a special place in his heart for his former wife and close friend, Tina Burkholder, and leaves many nieces and nephews to cherish his memory. His beloved cats, Fluffy, Midnite, and Baby Girl, were also part of his life and brought him comfort and companionship.
Danny was preceded in death by his father Ronald Sunderland and step-father, William Keller, Jr., and brother, David “Red” Keller.
The family will hold a celebration of Danny’s life on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 1:30pm until 5pm at the Woodward Twp. Firehall.
Memorial contributions may be made in Danny’s honor to Heidi’s Furry Friends Rescue, Inc., 1413 Elwood Rd., Williamsport, PA 17701.
Arrangements entrusted to Knight-Confer Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be expressed on Danny’s memorial page at http://www.KnightConferFuneralHome.com.
