Born in San Diego on August 30, 1945, Dan was the cherished son of Ferris and Violet Vinson. He died on September 7, 2026.

A Navy veteran known for his faith and strength, Dan was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, and brother in Christ. He will be interred at Miramar National Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 21. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 17, at North Park Community Church, 3702 29th St., San Diego, CA 92104.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Pamela Smith, and his son David Wayne. He leaves behind Rosemary (Ford) Vinson, his wife of 60 years; their daughters, Jacqueline Chapman and Kimberly Powell, and their husbands, Scott and Joel; and four grandchildren, Lauren and Matthew Chapman and Joshua and Zane Powell. He is also remembered by many cousins and by the foster children he and Rosemary cared for through the years.

Dan served in the Navy from 1963 to 1984 during the Vietnam era. His career included 12 years at sea aboard three ships and assignments in Hawaii, Australia, Guam, San Diego, and Mare Island in Vallejo, California. Following his naval retirement, he spent 10 years as a 911 dispatcher with the San Diego Sheriff’s Department before an injury led to his early retirement.

Dan valued time with family and friends and took great satisfaction in helping others, both during and after his military service. His interests included fishing, shell collecting, travel, target shooting, cooking, and computers. Above all, Dan loved worshiping the Lord and serving his church whenever possible.

A deeply faithful man, Dan served as an elder at North Park Community Church. He was a dedicated prayer warrior who readily shared thoughtful guidance and practical assistance. He was also known for placing Bibles in the hands of those who needed them.