Daniel Geyer

DANIEL F. GEYER Age 81, passed into eternity on August 4, 2005, after a lengthy illness. A member of the "greatest generation," he was our great treasure. A native Californian, Dan was born in Burbank on January 26, 1924, to Karl and Clara (Psotta/Ruebhausen) Geyer. They preceded him in death as did his beloved daughter, Teri Louise Buckley-Geyer; his brother, Karl "Buster" Geyer; and his God-father, Frank Berkman. Surviving him is Vera Irene (Smith) Geyer with whom he just celebrated 60 years of marriage. Four generations of family gathered at their home in honor of the occasion. Surviving family also includes sons, Larry L. (Lynn) Geyer and Gary A. Geyer; granddaughter, Laura L. Geyer; grandsons, Chad A. (Tasha) Geyer and Daniel T. (Natalie) Geyer; and great-granddaughters, Taylor L., Faith A., and Eden M. Geyer. As close as his own children are to him are niece, Karen (Ed) Geyer Grieco; and nephews, Doug (Laura) and Russ Geyer and their children. Dan spent his early years on his grandparents' farm in Kansas City, Kansas, which is why "Kansas City" was his favorite song. However, he later moved back to California, settled in San Fernando and graduated from San Fernando High School in 1942. A group of his classmates have been getting together monthly for the past 60 years. When WWII broke out, Dan joined the Army Air Force and served in the 8th Airforce, 385th Bomb Group (550th Bomb Squadron). He was a decorated veteran who flew 29 missions over Europe as a B-17 engineer. Some of these missions took place on his favorite B-17, "Haybag Annie." When WWII ended, he finished his military career at LaJunta Airbase in Colorado, where he met Vera, the love of his life, who shared his appreciation of airplanes and the outdoors. An avid practical joker, Dan was always thinking up his next trick to pull on the nearest victim. He later worked in the oil fields with Clarence "C.B." Boswell, his life-long buddy. Dan and C.B. took up the plastering trade and were members of the same local Plasterer's Union. They shared many adventures together right to the end - even their passing in the same week. Watch out for a tomato shower! Upon his retirement, he and Vera were thankful to have time for travel and family. They returned so metimes to the cabin in Kelso Valley and often to Camp Azusa in the high sierras where they enjoyed camping, fishing, and stories of the good old days. A celebration of Dan's life will be held Thursday, August 11, 2005, 7:00 p.m., at Hillcrest Christian Church, 17531 Rinaldi Street in Granada Hills, California. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the American Lung Association or the American Heart Association would be appreciated.