Daniel Walther

Master Sergeant, U.S. Army (Ret.)

May 2, 1958 - March 8, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Master Sergeant (Ret.) Daniel Ralph Walther, who left this world on Saturday, March 8, 2025. A man of unwavering dedication, sharp wit, and an unshakable love for his family and country, Dan lived his life with a spirit that could never be dimmed.

Born on May 2, 1958, Dan dedicated his life to service-first to his country as a proud soldier of the United States Army, then to those he loved. A hell of a shot and a warrior through and through, he was the kind of man you wanted by your side in any battle-but even more so around a bonfire, where his jokes, infectious laugh, and endless stories made him the heart of any gathering.

A Soldier's Legacy

Dan honorably served his country for over two decades, rising to the rank of Master Sergeant. His final duty assignment was with the elite 1st SFOD-D (Delta Force) (ABN), Fort Bragg, NC-a testament to his skill, bravery, and dedication. His service included roles as a:

Special Forces Senior Sergeant (18Z50)

Armor Senior Sergeant (19Z50)

Cavalry Scout (19D40)

Special Forces Communications Sergeant (18#40)

Throughout his career, he completed rigorous military education, including:

Special Forces Orientation Training

Special Operations Communications Course

Advanced Land Navigation Course

Arabic/Egyptian Language Course

His courage and excellence earned him an array of medals, awards, and badges, including:

Meritorious Service Medal (3rd Award)

Combat Infantryman Badge

Master Parachutist Badge

Military Free Fall Parachutist Badge

Special Forces Tab

Valorous Unit Award (2nd Award)

Army Commendation Medal (2nd Award)

Joint Service Achievement Medal (2nd Award)

Army Achievement Medal (4th Award)

Southwest Asia Service Medal with Two Bronze Service Stars

Kuwait Liberation Medals (Kuwait & Saudi Arabia)

Israeli Defense Force Parachutist Badge

Dan was a true warrior-a man of discipline, leadership, and fearlessness. But more than that, he was a protector in every sense of the word. His loyalty and love extended beyond the battlefield, touching the lives of everyone lucky enough to know him.

A Life Beyond Service

Dan was a devoted father to Joshua, Cassandra, and Alys, and a proud grandfather to Maisie and Lukas. His love for his family was immeasurable, and he never missed an opportunity to let them know how proud he was. He was also a cherished brother to David, Tess, Fritz, and Bobby, and an uncle to many nieces and nephews who adored him.

But beyond blood, Dan had a way of making everyone feel like family. If you were his friend, you were his brother or sister for life. He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back-right before roasting you with the funniest joke you'd ever heard.

To know Dan was to know loyalty, laughter, and just the right amount of mischief. The goofiest man in the room, he had a way of making people smile, even in the toughest times. His quick wit and humor will be dearly missed but forever remembered by those who loved him.

Services & Celebration of Life

A viewing will be held on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Colonial Funeral Home of Leesburg (201 Edwards Ferry Rd NE, Leesburg, VA 20176) from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Refreshments to follow.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Dan's birthday, Friday, May 2, 2025. We will gather to share stories, laughter, and honor the incredible man he was.

In lieu of flowers, raise a glass, tell a joke, and hug your loved ones a little tighter-because that's what Dan would have wanted.

Rest easy, Dad. Your watch is over, but your love, laughter, and legacy will live on forever.