Dale Joseph Gagan
Chief, U. S. Navy
Master Sergeant, U. S. Air Force
World War II - Korea

The Early Years

Dale Joseph Gagan was born on 13 February 1918 in Denver, CO. He was the eldest of two sons born to George and Mary Gagan, who emigrated from County Cork, Ireland. Dale attended Catholic school from kindergarten through high school.

At age 20, Dale married Vivian Gumby. They had a daughter, Patricia Josephine.

Military Service

Dale enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II, becoming an Athletic Specialist. He trained air cadets at St. Mary's Pre-Flight Academy and completed his enlistment with the rank of Chief.

In 1950, after moving to Los Angeles, he met Lucy Luz Aurea Santos in MacArthur Park while he was working at Tortilla Pete's Mexican Restaurant. They soon married.

As the Korean conflict began, Dale enlisted in the military once again, this time in the U.S. Air Force. He completed this enlistment as a Master Sergeant.

Post-Military Life

In 1957, Dale and Lucy had a son, Casey Anthony Gagan, who became their greatest joy. They raised him in Canyon Country (north of Los Angeles), where they had settled. Dale worked for a uniform supply company for many years.

Being an athlete, Dale coached most of his son's sport teams. He was also an avid swimmer and an accomplished diver. He was active in the community and was a member of the local Elks lodge. He loved to barbeque and entertain.

In 1980, his son Casey, a U.S. Navy F-14 pilot, was stationed at Miramar Naval Air Station, so Dale and Lucy retired to San Diego. There they spent their time fishing, camping and traveling and visiting their son. They enjoyed the good life during the 1980s.

Death and Burial

Dale Joseph Gagan died of cancer at his home in San Diego on 20 May 1990. He is buried at Holy Cross Cemetery in San Diego, CA.

He was survived by his wife, Lucy; son, Casey; daughter, Patti; three grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many loving family members, and beloved friends.