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1940 - 2013

BORN

1940

DIED

2013

Walter Darran Obituary

WALTER DARRAN Walter Darran departed Friday November 15th before the sun rose. He was 73. He lived his life with a passion for his loved ones and friends, the aircraft he commanded, and the boats he sailed. Christine, the love of his life, sons Jay, and Scott and wife, Heather, and their children Hanna and Tyler, together with a host of extended family and friends around the world, will miss him. Walt experienced the thrill of a catapult launch off a carrier deck, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross, and the serenity of sipping champagne after piloting lighter-than-air balloons. Once retired from American Airlines, he flew an airtanker for Cal Fire, out of Chico where he resided after having experienced living and traveling in many exotic locations around the world. His contemporaries felt he lived a charmed life. In reality, he charmed life with his imagination thoughtful insights, and generosity. Walt will be truly missed. A celebration of life is being planned.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chico Enterprise-Record on Nov. 23, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Walter Darran

2 Entries

Ken Jones

November 24, 2013

Dear Chris and family,
It's with heavy heart that I offer my condolences. Walt was a good friend from college days and we had many adventures back then.
Walt, along with Sam Vernallis lived the life I wanted back then but never made. Riding in the cockpit for his retirement flight to London and back was an experience I'll never forget.
The class of 1961 has lost a great member and I've lost a good friend. Rest in peace, buddy!

Cynthia Goulet

November 23, 2013

Christine & family - one of life's true gentleman. We have to believe our flyboys are up there swapping lies and planning their next flights. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all. See you in the New Year. With love

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Walter Darran

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Walter Darran Obituary

Memories and Condolences for Walter Darran

Make a Donation in Walter Darran's name

Memorial Events for Walter Darran

How to support Walter's loved ones

Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

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