Way "Danny" Shew Gin

Way Shew Gin, known as "Danny" to his family and friends, passed away on December 15, 2024, at the age of 90 in Buellton, California.

Danny was born on April 28, 1934, in the Canton Province of China, now known as Guangzhou. He spent his early years in Hong Kong before immigrating to the United States in his early twenties. He initially settled in Oakland, California, before moving to Santa Barbara in 1962 to join his parents and sister in what was then known as New Chinatown on East Canon Perdido Street.

A loving father and hard-working provider, Danny often held multiple jobs to support his family, including roles as a maitre d' at the Santa Barbara Inn and as a clerk at Tally Ho Liquors and Payless Drug Store. In 1970, he pursued his passion for model-building by opening Gin's Raceway Hobby Store, where he shared his love for crafting intricate models of military aircraft, airplanes, naval ships, and cars. His creative spirit and attention to detail were unmatched, and he delighted in sharing this passion with his children when they were young, building models together and enjoying airshows as a family.

Danny later moved to Buellton in 2002, where he embraced the local community and spent his final decades surrounded by friends and loved ones. Known for his outgoing personality and zest for life, Danny never missed an opportunity to enjoy good food, lively parties, a spirited game of Mahjong or to play slots. His infectious charisma and warmth allowed him to make friends wherever he went.

Danny is survived by daughter, Emily Gin Kilpatrick (and husband William); son, Ron Gin (and wife Danelle); sister, Lillian Gin Chan; nieces, Tina Oppedisano (and husband Carlo), and Denise Chan; and many cherished friends. He is predeceased by his parents, Sang Gin (Father) and Tew Oy Gin (Mother).

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Cesar, Carmen, and Fernando Garcia for their friendship and compassionate care of Danny in his later years.

Danny's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His life was a testament to hard work, creativity, and the joy of connecting with others.

A memorial service will be held on February 8, 2025, at 1:00 pm PT on East Beach, E. Cabrillo Blvd (on the grassy lawn area, across the street from the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort). During the memorial service, an aerial scattering of Danny's ashes over the ocean will take place, honoring his memory in the skies he loved.