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Daniel Durante Obituary
Dan was born in Utica, NY, on August 25, 1954, and proudly made his career with the US Air Force. As a widely-renowned aircraft maintenance specialist and aviation mechanic, he was honored for the excellence of his work with many military citations, including the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, and the Good Conduct Medal. He had also been decorated by his superiors for his skill as an expert marksman. Master Sergeant Durante retired from active military duty in 1999 after 21 years of dedicated service to his country.
Admired for his wonderful sense of humor and gift for endearing pranks and jokes, Dan was a charming "people person" and extremely well-liked by everyone he met. He possessed a strong work ethic throughout his life and was always at his happiest when planning a new and challenging project. In his leisure hours, he greatly enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, sampling all types of interesting foods and international cuisines, and lounging every Sunday to watch the NFL.
A devout Christian throughout his life, he was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Beloved companion, son, father, brother, and friend, Dan will be deeply missed by the many people who loved him. He is survived by his devoted companion, Judy K. Wasylyszyn-Ridley; daughters, Carla M. Durante and Danielle L. Durante; father, Anthony Durante; and brothers, Michael Durante and wife Chris and David Durante.
Visitation will be held from 9:45 am to 11:15 am on Monday, December 3, 2012, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 500 W. Chestnut Hill Road, Newark, DE, with a funeral service beginning at 11:30 am. Interment with military honors will follow in Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, c/o Bishop Chet Hadley, 6 Shades Court, Newark, DE 19702, or to the charity of the donor's choice.
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Memories and Condolences
for Daniel Durante
Clyde Ayers
December 2, 2012
My sincere condolences to Dan's family.
The aviation community has suffered a great loss. Technicians of the likes of Dan are few. Great sense of humor and always serenading us along with the radio! You will be sorely missed.
Ken Poplos
December 1, 2012
Dan,
You were one of the finest technician, co-worker, boss, all-around friend to be around. You always were the 'Git-R-Done' guy that could figure out how to accomplish anything. You will be missed by all that you've touched. And you'll be glad to know there's no Hawkers in Heaven, only Harleys. The downside is the Eagles are showing on every channel. If you happen to see a young Marine saluting you, I've asked him to make sure you are well taken care of. Rest in peace, Bud. You deserve it.
To Danielle and Carla,
My deepest sympathy for the loss of your Dad. He was always proud of you. If it helps at all just remember that he has been cured of any pain anymore. You'll always remain in his heart.
Cathy
November 29, 2012
Rest in peace dear neighbor.
Carol White
November 29, 2012
I met Dan while I was in the Clubhouse at Crossings at Christiana. We spoke about his service in the Air Force and about his two daughters, whom I could tell from the smile on his face he was very proud of them. I always would wave to him as I was going by as he was shining his car. I would always get a smile on my face when I would hear music outside because I would know it was Dan coming or going on his motorcycle. Even though I didn't know him that well I am very saddened of his passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
November 29, 2012
My condolences to the family. God is near to those broken at heart. Ps 147:3
Ed Strehlau
November 29, 2012
Dan, We have been friends for over 13 years now since your first day at Atlantic Aviation (Falcon Jet) & Then when we worked together at Sunoco Aviation. I'm going to miss our phone conversations, especially you giving me a hard time about the Eagles. Your a great man with a great sense of humor...heaven is a better place now & I will see you on the other side my friend!
To your Daughters Carla & Danielle, my deepest sympathy. Your Dad talked about you every time we talked. He loved you & was so proud of you both!
Rest in Peace my friend, rest in peace!
Kenneth Hall
November 29, 2012
R.I.P. Dan Durante you will be truly missed
Mike Kreller
November 29, 2012
Dan you will surely be missed. Although I only new you for about a year,you were like a second dad to me. I always enjoyed coming to work,and talking to you,and you always made me laugh. Even when I was having the worst of days. You always asked me how I was doing,and I'd ask the same.You were a great friend and role model. I will never forget you buddy! I know you are in good hands upstairs ,God will take care of you. See you on the other side. Rest in Peace ! BIG Mike
November 29, 2012
If there were more people like Dan, the world would be a better place!
Donna Simmerman
November 28, 2012
Words can't express the sadness a lot of your co workers feel right now. You were a great guy to work with and when no one was there to listen, you always found the time to lend an ear and give some good advice. Its not fair that your life here on earth ended so young. RIP Dan.
November 28, 2012
This worlds loss, Heavens gain. Too few like you.
Cathy Codding
November 28, 2012
"Clarence: Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?" It's A Wonderful Life.
Dan, you'll be sorely missed. I'll always remember your meeting Johnny and me at Hannum's when I got my very first Harley! Happy Riding, my friend. Love, Cat
Christopher Muzzi
November 28, 2012
"Do you know why polar bears are white? It has to do with the way the sun rise in the east. You see when I was riding on the wagon train in Oklahoma. We would circle the wagons at night to keep the camp fire from going out. Because the wind would blow from every direction once a fire was lit. Now when the Northern light would glow at night and the polar bears would sunbathe in the glow this would turn them white."~D.Durante
I'll miss listening to you stories. Take care. Your friend Tater
For his family- I'm sorry for your loss.
Walter Doughty
November 28, 2012
Dassault has not been the same since you left the Company. You always stuck by the people who worked for you. You will be sorely missed
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