Dana Ewing

New London - Dana Ewing, of New London, passed away Sept. 9, 2025, at the age of 84. Son of Gladys and Merle Ewing, Dana was born in Salem, Ohio, in 1940. He attended Baldwin-Wallace Conservatory of Music, where he met his future wife, Shirley Barr. He graduated in 1962 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree.

Immediately after graduation, Dana won the audition for the United States Coast Guard Band and settled in New London. He served with the Band for twenty years, 17 and a half of them as principal oboist. His career took him across North America and to numerous national events in Washington, D.C., including the state funerals of Presidents John F. Kennedy and Herbert Hoover, General Douglas MacArthur, and every presidential inaugural ceremony of that era.

Music and service were central to Dana's life, but he also devoted himself to teaching and volunteering. He shared his love of music through private oboe lessons, coached swimmers with the Greater New London Swim Club, and even taught celestial navigation with the Power Squadron.

An avid sailor, Dana competed in several offshore races, including passages to Bermuda. He and Shirley shared a love of travel, enjoying 25 ocean cruises together to destinations around the world.

Beyond the Coast Guard Band, Dana performed with the Eastern Connecticut Symphony and, following his retirement, remained active as a member of Friends of the Symphony.

Dana is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Shirley; their children and spouses, John (Sophie), Chris (Susan) and Laura (Don Mei); four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made to Smilow Cancer Research Center. Byles Memorial Home, 99 Huntington Street, New London is assisting with the arrangements. Please visit www.Byles.com to sign the guestbook or to share a memory