Ronald “Dean” McDaniel was born in San Diego, California, to Steven and Eleanor McDaniel. He grew up in Linda Vista, where he attended Chesterton Elementary School, before the family moved to East San Diego on 54th Street. There, he continued his education at Andrew Jackson Elementary. When Dean was in sixth grade, the family moved again—to La Mesa—where he attended La Mesa Junior High and later Helix High School.

At Helix, Dean made the most of his high school years. He played football, ran track, and joined several extracurricular activities, including Model United Nations, Student Council, and the Speech Club. His drive, leadership, and good nature made him someone others looked up to even then.

After graduating from Helix High in 1960, Dean went on to San Diego State College (now San Diego State University), where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Management in January 1965. During his college years, he was an active member of Circle K, serving as both President and Lieutenant Governor—roles that fostered leadership and service.

In the summer of 1964 Dean began his proud and lasting association with the United States Marine Corps when he attended Officer Candidate School. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and served on active duty from 1965 to 1968. A Vietnam veteran, Dean was awarded the Purple Heart, the Navy Commendation Medal, and several ribbons with Combat “V”.

When he returned home, life had many blessings in store. On April 12, 1969, Dean married the love of his life, Candy Herweg, beginning a partnership that would span 56 wonderful years. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, faith, and family—a place where love and devotion always came first.

Dean continued to serve in the Marine Corps Reserve for another 25 years, eventually earning the rank of full Colonel—a proud achievement that reflected his lifelong commitment to honor, discipline, and service.

In his civilian career, Dean worked in sales for a number of companies, including a particularly fun chapter with the Klondike Corporation, where he introduced their famous ice cream bars to the West Coast. Later, he transitioned into real estate, where he thrived as a salesman and broker, helping families find homes and guiding them through the loan process with his trademark professionalism and integrity.

After retiring in 2011, Dean faced a major health challenge just six months later when he survived a serious heart attack. He often said that the years that followed were his “bonus years”—a gift that allowed him more time with those he loved. It also inspired him to volunteer at Memorial Care Saddleback Medical Center as a Compassionate Listener working with heart patients. He lived these last 14 years with gratitude, humor, and the quiet strength that had defined him throughout his life.

Dean is survived by his beloved wife, Candy; their three daughters, Kelly Jacobson, Kerry Williams, and Holly Norman; twelve grandchildren who brought him endless joy; and his brother, Bill McDaniel.

Dean will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, loyal Marine, and dear friend. He was deeply loved—and he will be profoundly missed.

A Vigil and Rosary will be held at O’Connor Mortuary in Laguna Hills on November 12, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated the following day at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Laguna Woods at 12:00 p.m., with a reception immediately following in the Parish Center.

In keeping with Dean’s wishes, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his memory to the military charity of your choice.