Danny Joe Bauch

Danny Joe Bauch, known to many as DJ was a brilliant Principal Software Security Engineer, Chief Scientist, and a man of boundless curiosity, passed away unexpectedly on November 5, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas. He was 65.

Born on July 6, 1960, Danny’s life was marked by exceptional intellect, creative passion, and a commitment to service. Having grown up in Miami, FL and graduating in the Class of 1978 from Coral Park High School, Danny was congressionally appointed and accepted into the United States Air Force Academy. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science in 1982. Later, he deepened his expertise by achieving a Master’s degree in Computing and Information Sciences from Trinity University in 1987.

After attending the Air Force Academy Danny served the Air Force as a Tactical Intelligence System Development Officer receiving two Achievement Medals and One Commendation Medal. He was Honorably Discharged 1994 and through out his career while serving the private sector he continued to serve the United States and the Air Force. He dedicated his distinguished professional career to technology and security, most recently serving as a Principal Software Security Engineer at Alion, now HII.

While working full time with Alion for over 25 years, Danny was a Part-time Adjunct Professor teaching Computer Software courses at San Antonio College from 1988 to 1995 and then at Park University from 1995 to 2004. Also served as Mentor/Coach in 2012 and 2015 for the South San High School Robotics Team #457 known as the “Grease Monkeys” who were 2012 Alamo Region Champions of FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). Then he mentored the Taft Robotics Team from William Howard Taft High School in 2019.

Beyond his professional accolades, Danny had a rich and vibrant inner life fueled by many diverse interests. A true Renaissance man, his passions spanned the digital and the artistic. He had a life long interest in art, music, science (including science fiction), and computers which is reflected in his library of several thousand books, CD's, and other media. He was an avid photographer, capturing the world's beauty above and experiencing it below the surface as a devoted scuba diver. His creativity found expression in drawing and art, and his analytical mind delighted in programming, AR/VR technology, and the strategic complexities of video games like Fortnite. A loyal fan of the San Antonio Spurs, Danny also loved music, especially the works of Frank Zappa and Bach. He was a connoisseur of simple pleasures, cherishing good food (especially shrimp), a well-written book, Robert Graham shirts, the unique drive of his beloved Mazda RX-8, and always accompanied by his favorite, Fiji water.

He is survived by his loving mother, Carol Foster; his sister, Linda Mihyar; his brother, Alex Bauch; his nephew, Luke Mihyar; and his nieces, Sara Fair and Hayley Belen.

Danny’s warmth and unique perspective enriched the lives of his family, including his parental figures of Ernie and the late Carol Oakes, his Fiancée Natasha Dienemann, her daughter Lili and two sons, Aiden and Tyler. Danny enjoyed a large network of close friends and fellow co-workers who shared his various interests.

He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, innovation, and an unwavering zest for life. He will be missed.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Air Force Academy Foundation. Visit usafa.org/82gifts25 or to the St Jude Children's Research Hospital at stjude.org or by calling St. Jude at 800-805-5856.

Services for Mr. Danny Joe Bauch will be announced at a later time.