Richard "Dick" Louis Dana

Richard (Dick) Louis Dana, 94, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away on January 30, 2025. Dick was born on November 28, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan, to Francis and Ethel (Baker) Dana. He was a man of deep integrity, boundless generosity and one who took great pride in his family. His kind heart touched the lives of everyone that was fortunate enough to know him. 

After graduating high school, Dick proudly served in the U.S. Navy for four years before attending Purdue University. He built a remarkable career spanning 50 years beginning as a chief chemist for Anaconda Copper Mining Company and ending as the Superintendent of Metallurgical Control for Phelps Dodge. Hardworking and dedicated, he took great pride in his profession and always sought excellence, before retiring at the age of 75. 

Dick was never one to sit still. From an early age, he embraced adventure. As a young teenager, he learned to sail on Lake Michigan. Dick was a part of a crew of 4 that completed a 2,000-mile, 36-day sailing journey from the Gulf of the St. Lawrence River to Michigan City, Indiana, when he was just 18. He built a cabin in the mountains of Montana, where he learned how to ski and continued skiing well into his 80’s on family ski trips. He loved the game of tennis and spent countless hours on the court, including hitting the ball around just a few months ago. Dick was always on the move, finding joy in both adventure and the simple pleasures of staying busy. This also consisted of his morning ritual of getting a Starbucks coffee.

But it was his family that meant everything to him. Dick married the love of his life, Gayle, in 1964, and together they built a beautiful life full of love, devotion and memorable life experiences. The couple raised three children, Jeff, Doug, and Lori, who will forever cherish their father’s guidance, support, and unending love. He had a special bond with each of his grandchildren who lit up his life. Dick was a strong provider and a good man whose memory will forever bring warmth to our hearts. 

Dick leaves behind a family that will continue to honor his memory: his children, Jeff (Bonnie) Dana, Doug (Alejandra Valencia and her children, Sophia, and Andrew) Dana, Lori (James) Shaw and their children, Dillon, Maddie, and Sophie; his nieces and nephews and other family members, and many other dear friends and neighbors.

While he will be deeply missed, there is comfort knowing that Dick is now reunited with his wife, Gayle. Their bond was one of unwavering love and companionship, and they are together once more. 

A private family gathering will be held to honor Dick’s life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project, a cause close to Dick’s heart. 

Thank you, Dad, for the lessons, the love, and enduring support that you always provided. We will miss you, and we will carry your spirit with us always.