Daniel John Blaul III passed on from this life to the next on February 23, 2005, in Ladera Ranch, California. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, he was the only child of Daniel John Blaul II and Veronica Leary Blaul. He attended Amundsen High School and it was there that he met the love of his life and wife of over 50 years, the former Marianne Bengtsson. They were married after their graduation from high school and the same year Dan enlisted in the Marine Corps. His 20 year service in the Corps included combat tours in Korea and Vietnam and he rose through the ranks from Private to Marine officer. After his military career was over, he went to work in the private sector in San Diego until he and Marianne finally retired for good in 1986 and relocated to 29 Palms, California. Though he will be greatly missed, the memories of the lessons he imparted, the stories he told of his life, the example he set for us all, and the humor, love, and warmth he and Marianne provided us during their lives will help fill the hole his passing has left in the hearts of his surviving family including: sons Ron and Doug, their wives and children, his great-grandson, and his extended family. In accordance with his wishes, he has been cremated and a service honoring his memory will be held in Oceanside, California, on April 23, 2005. In lieu of flowers, Dan requested that donations be made in his name to either the American Cancer Society or the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.
