Dan D. Pena

Dan was born in Petersburg, Virginia, while his father, First Sergeant (Ret) Dan P. Pena was stationed at Ft. Lee. Dan graduated from Mary Carroll High School, Corpus Christi, Tx in 1968. He played alto sax in the band. He earned his associate’s degree in drafting from Del Mar College, Corpus Christi, Tx.

He then proudly served in the U.S. Army as a construction draftsman. He was stationed at Ft. Stewart, Georgia. After serving his country, he returned to Corpus Christi, Tx. He worked at a number of places including Reynolds Aluminum and Brown and Root. Dan then moved to San Antonio, Tx. working as a CAD operator for Fraser Associates Architects. Dan then found his forever career with The Texas Department of Transportation where he made significant contributions as the District Bridge Inspection Coordinator. He retired in 2015 after 30 years of service.

Throughout his life, Dan exemplified selflessness and compassion. Nine years ago, he underwent a life-saving lung transplant, a courageous decision that not only prolonged his own life, but also offered hope to others. Even in death, Dan continued his legacy of giving by donating portions of his skin, bones, and blood vessels, ensuring his spirit of generosity would live on through the lives he touched.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dan’s true passion lay in the tranquil sport of fishing. Whether casting a line on a quiet pond or sharing stories with fellow anglers, he found solace and joy in the simplicity of nature’s beauty.

Dan was a long-time member of Madison Hills Baptist Church. He especially enjoyed the time spent in bible study with his group, affectionately called, “The Tuesday Night Second Chance Men’s Group” since so many also had dealt with life threatening health issues.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ora Meza Pena and Dan P. Pena; and brother, Nathaniel Pena. Dan is survived by his wife of 30 years, Susan Pena; son, Michael C. Pena; daughter, Charmaine M. Pena Hurley; stepchildren, Shannon Terrell, and husband Scott and LTC (Ret) Brian Santos and wife Erin; brothers, Ronald Pena, and wife Zuelema, Maurice Pena and wife Teresa; sisters, Nelda Pena, Loretta Haggard, and Irene Miller; 6 grandchildren as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

We wish to thank the doctors, PA’s, nurses and staff of University Hospital Lung Transplant Clinic as well as Dr. Christine Toth for the excellent care they provided Dan.

Dan will be fondly remembered by family, friends, and colleagues for his unwavering dedication, kind spirit, and love for life and God. He leaves behind a legacy of service, sacrifice, and kindness that will continue to inspire all those who knew him.

In honoring Dan’s memory, let us cherish the moments shared, the lessons learned, and the profound impact he had on the lives of others. May he rest in peace, forever casting his line in the peaceful waters of eternity.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Monday, May 20, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Porter Loring Mortuary, located at 1101 McCullough Ave., San Antonio, TX. 78212.

LIFE CELEBRATIONMONDAY, MAY 20, 202412:00 PMPORTER LORING MORTUARY1101 MCCULLOUGH AVENUE

Interment will follow in Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making memorial contributions to Madison Hills Baptist Church at https://madisonhills.com/

To view a recording of Dan's service, please follow the link in his Celebration of Life event below.