Denis Waitley

Denis Waitley, a renowned voice in the human potential movement and a revered author, speaker, and performance coach, passed away on June 7, 2025, in his hometown of San Diego, California. He had just celebrated his 92nd birthday the day before.

Born on June 6, 1933, in San Diego, Denis demonstrated leadership and ambition from an early age. He graduated from La Jolla High School in 1950, where he served as Student Body President. His pursuit of excellence led him to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, from which he graduated in 1955. Following his graduation, he trained as a Navy fighter pilot at Miramar Naval Air Station, laying the foundation for a life defined by discipline, courage, and vision.

Denis began his professional journey as a fundraiser for the Jonas Salk Foundation. It was during this time that he played a pivotal role in orchestrating the formation of the Andy Williams San Diego Open at Torrey Pines Golf Course in 1968 -now known as the Farmers Insurance Open-one of the most prominent tournaments on the PGA Tour.

His early career achievements were only a prelude to what would become a transformative legacy in personal development and performance psychology. Widely regarded as an expert in human motivation, Denis spent more than four decades traveling the globe-visiting over 160 countries and logging an average of 500,000 miles annually-sharing his insights on self-mastery and peak performance.

Denis authored 16 influential books that have inspired millions worldwide. Among them are enduring classics such as *The Psychology of Winning*, *Seeds of Greatness*, *The Winner's Edge*, and *Empires of the Mind*. His audio program *The Psychology of Winning* remains one of the best-selling personal development recordings of all time.

His work was grounded in extensive research and hands-on consulting with returning prisoners of war, Apollo astronauts, Olympic and Super Bowl athletes, top scientists, and business leaders. As Chairman of Psychology for the U.S. Olympic Committee's Sports Medicine Council, Denis helped elite athletes harness mental visualization techniques long before they became mainstream. He was also invited to join NASA's astronaut training program, where he worked with space shuttle crews on mental preparation strategies.

Denis was the founding director of the National Council on Self-Esteem and became one of the most sought-after speakers on motivation and personal growth. His teachings emphasized self-belief and internal empowerment-principles encapsulated in his memorable quotes: "Chase your passion, not your pension," "It's not who you think you are that holds you back; it's who you think you're not," and "The greatest limitations you will ever face are those you place on yourself."

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Denis cherished time with his family and found joy in life's great adventures. He loved deep-sea fishing and treasured family trips to Kenya's Maasai Mara, as well as cruises through Alaska and the Sea of Cortez. He also found joy in life's simple pleasures - playing fetch with the family dog, watching football games, and telling stories.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Deborah Waitley; Dayna Waitley Arnold and her husband Tom; Denis Waitley Jr.; and Darren Waitley and his wife Tammi. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Alexander Arnold; Alissa Arnold Watson; Shane, Kyler, Danica, and Kaden Waitley; and Jake Holladay. He also leaves behind great-granddaughters Isis, Athena, Sophie, and Ella. Denis held a special place in his heart for his beloved nephews and nieces and their families.

Denis Waitley lived with purpose and passion, inspiring generations to reach beyond perceived limits. May his memory continue to uplift all who were touched by his words and wisdom.

USANA Health Sciences, with whom Denis served as a spokesman for over 30 years, will feature a special Tribute in his honor during their 2025 Global Convention to held at The Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah on August 22.

A private Celebration of Life will be held later this year for family and close friends. If you would like to leave a personal tribute or share a special memory, please sign the guest book. For more on Denis, you may visit DenisWaitley.com.