Daniel Norman Dufek

Dan was a loving husband to Maria Dufek (Badel), a doting father to his daughters and their husbands, Cristina (Charles) Abernathy and Stephanie (Brandon) Alvarado, and a devoted Papa to his grandchildren, Brooke Alvarado, Grant Abernathy, Vincent Alvarado, and Gabriella Abernathy.

Those who knew Dan would all agree that he could light up a room with his smile, his laugh and the twinkle in his eye. Dan never met a stranger; in fact, he had the uncanny ability to connect with everyone he met and make them feel that they had known him for their entire life. He maintained those connections by texting, phone calls, and his daily drives past homes and businesses with his signature wave.

Some of Dan‘s happiest professional years were when he worked for Pacific Southwest Airlines (PSA). Throughout mergers and buyouts working for an airline was his dream job and he did it well for 34 years. He paired that with owning and operating Skip’s Paint Center learning more about paint than he ever dreamed possible.

Retirement gave Dan the opportunity to continue connecting with old friends, make new ones and become the best Papa ever. He celebrated everything about the grandkids – their interests, their talents, and their antics! Each one held a special place in his heart, each relationship unique. In their hearts he now is healed—perfect vision and hearing, a healthy heart and super powers to be with each one of us, all at the same time!!.

From the beginning of his life on March 1, 1951 in Southern California followed by a move to Boulder City, Nevada in 1982 Dan found joy in his love of work, friends, baseball, and his latest interest classic car shows with his 1971 Datsun 510 sedan. He was a quiet man, living a simple life, and yet a legend, larger than life to everyone he met.

Preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Bob and Bill, Dan will live on forever in each of us. As a special friend said, “One good person can touch more hearts than we’ll ever know.”

Daniel, Danny boy, Dan, Dano, Danso, Uncle Dan, “Dandy”, Dad, Poppy, Papa you’ve left us with wonderful memories!

Your family, including many nieces and nephews, in-laws and cousins and life long friends celebrate you! Our hearts may be broken a bit, but yours is now healed. We are thankful for the gift of time that you gave us for our last goodbyes.

In his memory share, as he did, your kindness, a smile or two every day, encouragement to a young person and a friendly wave as you cruise through life. Connect with others, don’t be afraid to ask questions and show genuine interest in those you meet. That’s what he would always say.

Additionally, please consider the gift of life through organ donation. Donate life!

There will be a Celebration of Life to be held March 11, 2023 at Boulder Creek Golf Course where we will remember a life well-lived and honor a person well-loved.