Daniel E. Durante

Born: 8/25/1954 Died: 11/27/2012 Mr. Daniel E. Durante, age 58, of Bear, DE, passed away on Tuesday, November 27, 2012, at his residence surrounded by his family. Dan was born in Utica, NY, on August 25, 1954, and proudly made his career with the US Air Force. As a widely-renowned aircraft maintenance specialist and aviation mechanic, he was honored for the excellence of his work with many military citations, including the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, and the Good Conduct Medal. He had also been decorated by his superiors for his skill as an expert marksman. Master Sergeant Durante retired from active military duty in 1999 after 21 years of dedicated service to his country. Admired for his wonderful sense of humor and gift for endearing pranks and jokes, Dan was a charming “people person” and extremely well-liked by everyone he met. He possessed a strong work ethic throughout his life and was always at his happiest when planning a new and challenging project. In his leisure hours, he greatly enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, sampling all types of interesting foods and international cuisines, and lounging every Sunday to watch the NFL. A devout Christian throughout his life, he was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Beloved companion, son, father, brother, and friend, Dan will be deeply missed by the many people who loved him. He is survived by his devoted companion, Judy K. Wasylyszyn-Ridley; daughters, Carla M. Durante and Danielle L. Durante; father, Anthony Durante; and brothers, Michael Durante and wife Chris and David Durante. Visitation will be held from 9:45 am to 11:15 am on Monday, December 3, 2012, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 500 W. Chestnut Hill Road, Newark, DE, with a funeral service beginning at 11:30 am. Interment with military honors will follow in Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, c/o Bishop Chet Hadley, 6 Shades Court, Newark, DE 19702, or to the charity of the donor’s choice. To sign guest book, visit spicermullikin.com SPICER-MULLIKIN FUNERAL HOMES & CREMATORY 302-328-2213