Daniel Joseph Munier

Daniel Joseph Munier left this earthly realm after facing cancer with dignity, strength and grace on New Year's Eve, December 31, 2024. He was surrounded by family at home in Foster City; he was 65 years old.

Born on July 12, 1959, in Oakland, California, Dan was the son of Ronald and Fay Munier. In 1962, he became a big brother, and two years later, the family moved to Foster City. Dan attended Foster City School, Bowditch Middle School, and San Mateo High School. During high school, he excelled on the football field and in the marching band's percussion section. After graduating, he continued his education at Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria.

Daniel-known as Dan to many and Danny to his oldest friends and relatives-began working at the young age of 14. By 19, he had already distinguished himself as a top salesman and became the youngest Store Manager at a Kinney Shoe Store. In his mid-twenties, Dan transitioned from shoe sales into the insurance industry before ultimately embracing self-employment. Over the years, he built an impressive career as an Entrepreneur and Marketing Guru. He spearheaded Foster City Financial, World Gym, Signature Lawns, Prime Video, Neighborhood Net Mall and the Seahorse Saloon, among many other endeavors.

In April 2013, Dan launched Package Unit Pros with his best friend and business partner. Of all his many business ventures, he was most proud of Package Unit Pros (PUP), a niche commercial HVAC company. His innovative marketing strategies earned him various awards, including a national advertising honor. Dan was an active member of several business organizations, the San Mateo Elks Lodge and the Manx Club.

On September 30, 1990, Dan married Valerie Gigandet after a brief courtship. This past year, they celebrated their 34th Wedding Anniversary. Dan spent most of his childhood in Foster City and lived all over California. In 1994, he and Valerie moved to Tacoma, Washington, where they welcomed their daughter, Allie Jo Christy Munier, on May 29, 1995. The family eventually ended up back in his childhood home in Foster City, where they resided for 25 years. Dan shared a special relationship with his daughter, Allie Jo. She fondly remembers her father's ability to make anyone laugh with a perfectly timed joke or hilarious story. Allie Jo will miss attending concerts with her Dad, specifically Shoreline Amphitheater-their favorite venue. She is infinitely proud to be his daughter, sidekick and mini-me. Dan loved being a Dad.

As a skilled drummer, Dan loved all genres of music, but his all-time favorite band was the Beatles. His passion for cars and motorcycles was equally strong; he treasured his Harley Davidson motorcycle, '57 Chevy, Avalanche truck, Roush Mustang, and Manx Dune Buggy-the latter of which he rebuilt himself. Dan began racing cars at age 50 on local 1/4-mile racetracks, winning a Championship in his final season with Joe by his side. Dan had an infectious smile and a gregarious laugh that instilled further laughter from everyone lucky to be around him. Dan was a funny guy.

His many talents matched Dan's vibrant personality. He was an excellent cook who loved grilling outdoors or experimenting with recipes in his pizza oven or smoker. He was a wine enthusiast, a passion he shared with Allie Jo. He loved Mickey Mouse and was an avid fan of the Raiders, the Oakland A's and the Tiger-Cats. His love for Spiderman knew no bounds. Dan prided himself on being a Civil War history buff. Dan found joy in simple pleasures: spending sunny days in the backyard with family, friends and their pets. As long as he was grilling and listening to music, he was in his happy place-unless, of course, he was on a beach in Pismo or Puerto Vallarta.

Dan is survived by his loving wife, Valerie; treasured daughter, Allie Jo; sister, Bon Marie Munier; nephews Dorian Askew (Michelle), Jaron Silva (Cheryl), Beau Askew and Grand Niece Myla Silva; as well as many Foster siblings and a large extended family.

We invite family and friends to celebrate Dan's life on Saturday, May 10, at 4 p.m., at the Elks Lodge in San Mateo. Everyone is welcome; wear purple if you'd like, in honor of Dan's favorite color.