Dennis's obituary
Dennis Moran: Beloved Educator, Artist, and Community Pillar Passes Away at 85
San Jose, CA — Dennis Moran, a renowned art educator, gifted artist, and vibrant community figure, passed away peacefully at the age of 85. Dennis was known for his unwavering passion for teaching, his boundless creativity, and his unique ability to bring joy to everyone around him. His legacy will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Lifelong Journey of Art and Education
Dennis Moran was born in Nebraska, in April 1939, along with his older sister Colette. The family later moved to Denver, Colorado, in 1943 before settling in Salinas, California, in 1947. It was in Salinas where Dennis’s artistic talents began to flourish, eventually leading him to graduate from Salinas High School in 1957.
His journey in art education began at the California College of Arts and Crafts(CCAC), where he earned a Special Secondary Teaching Credential in 1961. Dennis’s thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there; he went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Art Education from the University of San Francisco in 1976.
Dennis’s teaching career spanned 36 years, beginning in 1961 at Dinuba High School, where he taught Art and Welding. He later moved to San Rafael High School before finding his home in San Jose in 1965. Here, Dennis taught at John Muir Junior High until 1976, earning the title of "San Jose Unified School District Teacher of the Year" that same year.
His dedication to his craft and his students led him to become part of the opening staff at Steinbeck Junior High, where he taught until 1982. Dennis continued to inspire students at Gunderson High School, where he taught Ceramics, Drawing, Painting, Design, and Leadership until 1994. His final teaching years were spent at Willow Glen High School, where he left an indelible mark on his students before retiring in 1998.
A Master of Many Mediums
Beyond his teaching career, Dennis was an accomplished artist with a passion for caricature and graphic design. In the summer of 1977, Dennis began a caricature business, starting at the San Jose Flea Market and later at the Santa Clara County Fair. His talent took him to events like Tapestry and Talent and even onboard Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, where he entertained guests with his caricatures while his wife, Mary, who added color to the creations. These cruises took them to breathtaking locations, from the Mexican Riviera to the Chilean Coast.
Dennis’s artistic endeavors extended beyond caricature. He was a master of welded steel sculptures, creating pieces that were as bold as they were beautiful. His work in various mediums, including wood, fiberglass, and paint, showcased his versatility and creativity. One of his most notable works, a welded steel figure of Christ on a driftwood crucifix, is proudly displayed at Trinity Cathedral in San Jose.
For over 20 years, Dennis and Mary were volunteers at the New Almaden Quicksilver County Park. They led tours of the museum and historic village along with hosting many arts and crafts sessions with family and kids.
Family and Friends: The Heart of Dennis’s Life
Dennis married Joan Ford in 1960, and together they had three children: Brian, Greg, and Darcy. After their divorce in 1976, Dennis found love again with Mary Wayne Penny, whom he married on Epiphany in 1978. Together, they built a blended family full of love, laughter, and shared adventures.
Dennis’s family extended far beyond his immediate relatives. He was a beloved figure in his neighborhood, known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering willingness to lend a helping hand. Whether it was building parade floats for the Fourth of July or teaching kids how to use tools, Dennis’s presence was a source of joy and inspiration.
A Life of Joy and Humor
Dennis had a unique gift for making people smile. His standard greetings, such as “Finer than frog’s hair” and “I’m great, but I’m getting better!” were as much a part of his personality as his art. He loved limericks, poems, and writing lyrics, often creating songs inspired by historical figures from New Almaden. An accomplished guitarist, Dennis played folk, rock n’ roll and classical music for church groups, Cursillos, and at school events, spreading his love for music wherever he went.
His passion for life extended to his many hobbies, including running, swimming, hiking, biking, horseback riding, skiing, and clay pigeon shooting. Dennis’s adventurous spirit was matched only by his creative one, as he continued to produce art and explore new mediums throughout his life. Early in their relationship, Dennis and Mary would often go on dates to scenic locations to paint, a tradition that continued with the Cambrian Artists’ League until the COVID pandemic.
A Loving and Lasting Legacy
Dennis’s life was a testament to the power of creativity, education, and community. His work as an educator and artist touched the lives of countless individuals, many of whom went on to pursue their own passions inspired by his guidance. Dennis also volunteered at several local hospitals visiting and entertaining patients. Even as dementia gradually took away his ability to create and engage in the activities he loved, Dennis remained a cherished member of his community, attending Live Oak Adult Day Services where he was treated with kindness, respect, and compassion.
Dennis is survived by his loving wife Mary, his children Brian (Juandine), stepsons Steve Penny (Mara) and Dave Penny (Stephanie Taylor), grandchildren Caitlin Moran, Kate Casavant, Julius, and Olive, his sister Colette (Sherwood Darington), nephew Scott Lyman (Mary), niece Karen Booth Waldrop (Kevin), and numerous other nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He is preceded in death by his son Greg and his daughter Darcy, whose recent passing was a deep loss to the family.
Dennis’s warmth, humor, and artistic talent will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the countless students he inspired, the art he created, and the memories he left behind.
A celebration of Dennis’s life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to remember the man who brought so much light and laughter into their lives. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Live Oak Adult Day Services in Dennis’s memory.
Rest in peace, Dennis Moran. Your life was truly a work of art.
