Danny Mac Chalfant

Danny Mac Chalfant, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and proud Navy veteran, passed away peacefully at home in Phoenix, Arizona, after a brief illness. He was surrounded by the love and presence of his family—just as he had always surrounded them with his own. He was 93.

Born on July 12, 1931, in Burlington, Colorado, Danny was the youngest of eight children born to Jack and Minnie Chalfant. He grew up with strong values of hard work, humility, and service—values that shaped the remarkable life he would go on to live.

Following his graduation from high school, he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy on February 19, 1952. During his faithful service, Danny was awarded numerous decorations and honors, including the National Defense Service, Korean Service, United Nations Service, Good Conduct, China Service, and the CPUC. His time in the Navy left a lasting mark—not only in awards and accolades, but in the way he carried himself every day: steady, strong, and selfless.

On November 24, 1957, Danny married Ann Schaal. Together, they shared 67 years of marriage —a rare and extraordinary testament—and built a life centered around family and faith. They raised four children: Steve, Cindy, Danielle, and Teena.

Danny and Ann made their home in Burlington, Colorado, where he pursued his lifelong passion for farming. In 1979, they relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, along with their youngest daughter Teena. In Arizona, Danny dedicated 23 years to the City of Chandler as a skilled fire truck mechanic—a job that perfectly matched his talent for fixing what was broken and his commitment to keeping others safe. Even after retiring, he couldn’t sit still for long, finding joy in greeting familiar faces as a part-time employee at Safeway. In his free time, he pursued numerous crafts that were loved by all.

Danny will be deeply missed by his cherished family: wife Ann; daughters Cindy Stewart, Danielle Chalfant, and Teena Desmarais; and grandchildren Matt Chalfant, Linsey Chalfant, Kirstan Adams, Luke Chalfant, Marissa Desmarais, and Nicolle Desmarais. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Steve Chalfant.

A memorial service to honor Danny’s life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in his memory to the Veterans Association, an organization close to Danny’s heart.

Danny will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his community. His legacy of kindness, service, and strength will live on in all who had the honor of knowing him.