Search by Name

Search by Name

Dan Valanty Obituary

Valanty, Dan SAN DIEGO -- On Saturday April 19, 2014, Dan Valanty passed away peacefully in his sleep while visiting friends out of town. The cause of death was heart failure. He was 77. Dan was born and raised on a farm in Pennsylvania. He attended Penn State University where he graduated in 1956. He later enlisted in the US Air Force, where he worked in air defense and was honorably discharged in 1958. After his military service, he moved to Hollywood and began a career in the film industry providing costuming for studios. This background eventually brought him to San Diego and Sea World, where he worked as a costume and wardrobe manager. Before he retired in 2008, Dan was one of the most recognized and beloved employees in Sea World history. He loved people and his friendships were for life. He was a quiet, gracious and kind man who was passionate about opera, classic stage and film and going out to dinner with an endless list of friends. Dan, we will miss you forever. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Smile Train at www.smiletrain.org

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

Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Apr. 27, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Dan Valanty

Not sure what to say?





Sandra Arquette

May 2, 2014

I have already told Penney and Chuck how grateful I am they brought Daniel into their family, watching after him in his declining years. I went to work for Dan March of 1988, lasting 19 years - I think back on those first years where he held court on the patio and every night Judi McMahon and I would join him, drink coffee and discuss the day. I remember how I would drag in all my musical toys at Christmas - Marti Padilla, Gloria McIntosh and I would drive him out of the office with their singing and dancing. He was gracious to my family and friends when they visited San Diego/Sea World and he always understood with out question my working world stopped when Joe II called and I became only Joe's mom for that space of time. I believe in a world beyond death and know that Daniel will be whole there.

Joy Wolf

April 29, 2014

Dan was a good person and a trusted friend. He did his best to make his part of the world a little better and brighter. He will be missed. Joy , Rob and Luisa

Lisa McDonnell

April 28, 2014

Dan changed everyone's life that he touched in a wonderful way. He spoke his mind, but was always full of wisdom and guidance. His humor was contagious! He was always willing to help even when it meant he had to put in more than his 50% to make it work. He was a true Sea World icon and will be missed. I feel a bit blessed that we all have Dan looking over us now and helping us navigate our lives on earth.

April 28, 2014

Dan

Thank You for your loyalty over the years. You are an exceptually talented and wonderful man. We truly believe God called upon you much too early because he needs a new wardrobe. Accept the challenge as you always have. Love,
Jan and Janell Schultz

Tim Booth

April 28, 2014

Going to really miss our dinners and conversation!

Cindy Little

April 28, 2014

Dan was one of the few people who still called me Cinderella. How could I not associate my time at Sea World with my friendship with Dan. Craig and I so enjoyed our dinners at Casa de Bandini with him. I'm shocked that he is gone, but will cherish my memories of our times with him. And love to hear other's stories of their times with him. I'm so grateful that he lived a full and colorful life. He will be dearly missed.
-Cindy, Mackenzie & Archer

Lisa Makarushka

April 28, 2014

Mr dan always made everyone family.... I will remember his stare if i was in trouble and he would laugh just to get me to smile...he is our sw angel on our shoulder now

Tim Booth

April 28, 2014

Dan I have worked at Sea World as a full time leadership team member half my life. I have just surpassed my 24 year mark and will always remember you as one of the most caring, loving, giving sea world family friends. You were always there for my team and I! You will be greatly missed but NEVER forgotten. You have made a tremendous impact on so many people! Peace be withyou my friend!

April 27, 2014

Dan...wonderful, caring and loyal friend! We will miss you forever.

S.

April 27, 2014

We miss you...

April 27, 2014

Dan was a great man and always treated me with respect while we worked at SeaWorld.

Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results

Make a Donation
in Dan Valanty's name

Memorial Events
for Dan Valanty

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Dan's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Dan Valanty's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more