Daniel William “Stoney” Stonecipher
Born in Oakland, California to Maxine and William Stonecipher, the family relocated to Newark, Delaware thereafter where he attended Newark High School and eventually graduated from the University of Delaware. His early aspirations led him to pursue a life at sea and a short term in the Maritime Academy, but later found his true calling when he enlisted with the Air Force and subsequently the Air National Guard.
He was hired with Trans World Airlines in 1966, where he would eventually make Captain and retire after 30 years. Flying proved to be a liberating journey for a free spirited individual like Dan, traveling and moving around the country making friends along the way. After stints living in Alabama, New York City, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Aspen and Antigua, he finally found his permanent home in Santa Barbara in 1977. It was the perfect place to pursue the outdoor hobbies he enjoyed most while raising a family. It was here that he felt most at home with its ideal climate and wonderful people. Whether traveling or taking road trips to surf and ski with his sons, playing tennis or golf, dancing to bluegrass music, sailing the channel islands or motorcycle riding in the mountains, Dan loved to be on the move and enjoy the boundless outdoor life.
In his years of retirement he remained active as a member of the American Red Cross’ disaster response team, picking up where his mother had left off in the Santa Barbara community. Those who knew him most will greatly miss his positive spirit, passion for life, and laid back attitude. On March 28, 2014 surrounded by family and friends, Dan took off on his final flight after succumbing to a terminal illness.
He is survived by his two sons William and John Stonecipher, sister and brother in law Joyce and Richard Carnovale, nieces Cecily Conklin and Jennifer Marwill, and former wife Alison Stonecipher.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in his name to either the American Red Cross or Visiting Nurses and Hospice Care.