DANIEL SANTIAGO

Daniel Santiago, affectionately known as Danny, passed away peacefully at home on December

18, 2024, at 8:24 am, at the age of 74. He was born on March 18, 1950, in his family home in

Manila, Philippines to his parents who have preceded him, Gregorio and Martha Santiago.

Daniel is remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend,

who brought joy and warmth to the lives of those around him.

After graduating from Cayetano Arellano High School in 1967, Daniel pursued further studies in

engineering at Don Bosco Technical College and Antelope Valley College. In 1974, he began a

career as a Merchant Marine, which lasted until 1980 when he moved to Los Angeles to join his

sister, Gloria. Daniel's life was marked by many significant milestones, including the birth of is

only son Sammy in 1973, two marriages; first to Isabel from 1977 to 1981, and later to his

beloved wife, Carol, whom he married on July 14, 1982, in Reno, Nevada.

Daniel dedicated 25 years of his life to the Lancaster School District as everyone’s favorite

Custodian, where he made enduring contributions before retiring in 2012. Throughout his

retirement, he cherished spending time on home projects with his son and grandsons, and he

found great joy in traveling, horse racing, and bowling, particularly enjoying his favorite

destination, Las Vegas.

Daniel was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Derrick Sorg, Samantha Santiago,

Dominique Santiago, Alyssa Santiago, Maya Santiago, and Sammy Santiago Jr., as well as one

great-grandson, Jaylyn Santiago. He cherished these relationships deeply as he spent as much

time with them as possible.

His favorite foods included the Filipino dish ginisang repolyo, a delightful mix of sautéed

cabbage, shrimp, and pork belly, and GG (Galung gong), a crispy fried fish served with vinegar

and spices. Daniel's love for sports, especially horse racing and bowling, was infectious. His

playful spirit shone through as he celebrated strikes and spares with his signature tune: "Dun Dun

Dun Duuuun and saying "nobody misses the five pin."

Daniel Santiago survived by his wife, Carol Santiago; his son, Sammy Santiago and wife,

Rizaly; his younger brother, Gregorio Santiago; and his cherished grandchildren and great-

grandson. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of love,

laughter, and family.