Col. Warren Daniel Kalas

U.S. Marine Veteran

Col. Warren Daniel Kalas, known as Dan, 83, of Staunton, VA left this life to go to his eternal reward on Saturday, July 24, 2021.

He was the loving husband of Patricia Kalas for 59 years. He is survived by his wife and his children, Ed Kalas (Marie) of Silver Lake, KS, Andrew Kalas (Cathie) of Las Vegas, NV, and Diane Kalas Johnsen of Gainesville, VA and 6 grandchildren.

He was born on January 2, 1938 in San Leandro, CA and preceded in death by his parents, Anthony Stanley Kalas and Faith Louise (La Fortune) Kalas and a sister and two brothers. He graduated from Las Lomas High School in Walnut Creek, CA in 1955 and graduated with a history degree from Long Beach State University.

He entered the United States Marine Corps in 1959 as a helicopter pilot and pilot trainer, retiring at the rank of colonel in 1984. He served three tours in Vietnam. His numerous medals include the Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Vietnam Commendation Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross, Gallantry Cross with Palm, Navy Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Presidential Unit Citation, and the Humanitarian Service Medal.

He also earned Master’s degrees in Organizational Management and in Theology.

After retirement from the Marine Corps and a number of years in the private sector, he became the Parochial Associate at St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church in Staunton, Va. in 1990 and worked there until 2002. He was a fourth-degree knight in the Knights of Columbus.

As a fervent servant of God, his Mass of Christian Burial will be held at noon on Thursday, August 5th at the St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church, 118 N New St., Staunton, VA 24401. For those unable to be present at the liturgy, the Mass will be livestreamed on the parish Facebook page.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Wounded Warrior Project at https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate .