Dena Diane Gunning

Dena Diane Gunning (née Moore), aged 59, passed away on February 21, 2026, in Bird's Landing, California. Born on October 19, 1966, in Hollywood, California, Dena lived a life marked by fierce love, generous service, and an unwavering commitment to the people around her.

Dena pursued a decades-long career in emergency preparedness, earning numerous special certifications and completing extensive training to excel in her field. She started several community preparedness initiatives, reflecting her dedication to serving her community with professionalism, foresight, and care. Her work was not simply a profession but an answer to the deep call she felt to be in service of those around her.

Dena was married to her beloved husband, Sean, for 33 years. Together they built a family filled with love and cherished memories. She is survived by their two children, Melissa and Michael; her half-brother, Tal Moore; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, Helen, who passed away in November 2025.

Outside of her professional achievements and family life, Dena found joy in photography and the outdoors, passions beautifully combined in her treasured cloud photographs. She was a devoted fan of the San Francisco Giants, often sporting bright orange nails in support, and a lifelong enthusiast of the Peanuts gang, with a particular fondness for Snoopy and Peppermint Patty. Her vibrant personality filled a room; her absence leaves it quieter.

Dena's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. May her legacy of strength and compassion continue to inspire those she touched throughout her remarkable life. The best way to honor her is to continue showing up for one another - loudly, generously, and without hesitation.

A Funeral Mass will be held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, at Our Lady of Angels Parish, 1721 Hillside Drive, Burlingame, CA.