Daniel Masterson

Daniel Matthew Masterson, 80, of Annapolis, MD passed away on May 10th, 2025 peacefully at home after a long illness. He was born in Chicago, Illinois and attended Thornton High School before graduating from the University of Illinois with a Bachelors in History, followed by Michigan State University for his Masters in History and Doctorate in Latin American History. He spent 36 years as a professor of Latin American History at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. There he found professional fulfillment working with the midshipmen, as the Faculty Advisor for the Track and Field team, and publishing 3 books and numerous articles. Dan particularly enjoyed his trips to Peru and Ireland. Dan was an avid runner, regularly coaching and participating in races around Annapolis for as long as he was able. He loved talking about running and travelling. He also loved fishing with friends and family in Maine and the rivers in the Mid-Atlantic. Dan will be remembered for his witty puns, sharp quips, and someone who never passed up an opportunity to have a lively debate. He is survived by his wife, Deborah; children Katherine (Bryan) Dillner, Andrew (Julia) Masterson, and Erin (Gregory) Swiatocha; and grandchildren Evan and Kara Dillner; Amelia, James, and Elsie Masterson; and Timothy, Joshua, and Abigail Swiatocha. He is also survived by twin brother Donald (Cathy Santos) Masterson, sister-in-law Kathy (Brian) Masterson, and brother-in-law H. Cliff (Linda) Martin; nieces and nephews Cyndi (Frank) Grobmeier, Eileen (John Cox) Spielman, Gregory Spielman, Lauren (John Kozar) Masterson, and Matthew and Michael Martin; and great-niece Samantha Grobmeier. He is predeceased by his parents Laurence and Josephine Masterson, brother Brian Masterson, sister Kathleen Spielman, and great-niece Maddie Grobmeier. He loved when his children and grandchildren were able to visit and fill his home with laughter. A celebration of life will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis on July 12th at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to organizations that were meaningful to him such as the SPCA, Annapolis High Sports Boosters, Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis, and Annapolis Striders.