Senior Chief Dan Cearley, 69, a distinguished Vietnam War veteran, passed away in El Paso, Texas, on March 30, 2024. Dan was born May 20, 1954, in Bristow, Oklahoma. Premature and at meager birth weight; the doctors did not expect him to survive. Displaying his stubbornness early on, he did survive. Dan's life was never easy, but as he learned as an infant, you must push through.
His illustrious career in the United States Navy spanned over two decades, culminating in his retirement in October 1992. Dan's most cherished achievement was not his military service but finding the love of his life and the joy he saw in his family. Dan was fortunate to be blessed with three children who grew up and are raising their own families. His heart swelled with pride and joy at the thought of his grandkids, Dennis, Summer, Samantha, Chayce, Lily, and his step-grandchildren Isabella, Sophia, and Marc.
He is survived by his two sons, Mike Cearley and wife Erzse of San Antonio, TX; Damon Cearley and wife Donell of Turkey Creek, NM; his daughter, Sanndi Ruiz and husband Anthony of San Antonio, TX; his brother, Ronnie Cearley and wife of Bristow, OK; his sister, Connie Gonzales of Kansas.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife, Carolyn A. Cearley.
A Celebration of Life service will be celebrated on Friday, June 21st at 1pm at Terrazas Funeral Chapels. The inurnment with full military honors will follow at Fort Bayard National Cemetery where both him and his wife will be laid to rest.
Cremation has taken place at Terrazas Crematory. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com .
