Phil Danko

1960 - 2014

Phil Danko
Resident of Santa Barbara
Phillip Steven Danko passed away on April 28, 2014. Phil was born to Joseph and Marion Danko on July 18, 1960, in Minneapolis, the third of five children. In 1967, the family moved to south San Jose, where his parents still reside. In a neighborhood teeming with sports-crazy boys, he was among the most gifted athletes. As a young teen, he ran the Bay to Breakers and other races before such endeavors were commonplace, and he showed great promise in football. His true calling, however, was wrestling. He was dedicated to the sport and was a star performer at Santa Teresa HS, where he was a High School All-American in 1978, his senior year. He was also an outstanding student, winning the school's scholar-athlete award. He received a wrestling scholarship to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. His wrestling was cut short by injuries, but Phil took advantage of his opportunity and obtained a bachelor's in Industrial Engineering, and later, a master's from USC. He had a successful career in aerospace and defense engineering, spending two decades with Delco. Phil, who fellowshipped at Calvary Chapels in the Santa Barbara area, loved his church, work, Giants, 49ers and NASCAR, wood working, and his family. He is survived by his parents; his former wife Suzy Danko; his son, Zachary; brothers Pete and Ken; sisters Liz and Debbie; and a large extended family. A celebration of Phil's life is planned for May 17 at 3 pm in Santa Barbara. Donations in his memory may be made to Cal Poly Wrestling. For details, contact petedanko [@] gmail.com.