Danny Ramirez, 88, born May 30, 1924, in Santa Barbara, California, passed away from a short battle with cancer after a life of joy, love, and laughter, on December 16, 2012, in Des Moines, Washington, surrounded by family.

Danny known as "Mr. Santa Barbara," was also known as Danny the Barber, to many more. Many of the local barbers from the 50s up to the 90s started working for Danny before they went out on their own. He opened his first shop in 1952 at the age of 28. He later opened the shop everyone knows as Danny's Custom Style in 1960, where he worked until he finally retired at the age of 88. He cut the hair of four generations of Santa Barbarans.

Danny was an icon in Santa Barbara. Family dinners out always consisted of a half hour wait before he would join the table, because he had to greet and hand shake everyone on the way in. Politicians often sought his endorsement.

Danny attended Santa Barbara High School, enlisted in the Navy during WWII, as a gunners mate, fought in 11 battles, and was in Midway at the signing of the Peace Treaty with Japan.

He returned to Santa Barbara and went directly to Barber School. Later to meet his wife of 54 years, Veneranda Sanchez Ramirez, until her passing in 2003.

He was active in the community, Past President of the Lions Club, Elks Club member, Native Son of the Golden West, Foresters, and volunteered with the Boys Club, sang in the church choir and deacon at First Baptist Church in his early years.

Hobbies included playing golf, fishing, playing his guitar and harmonica. But Danny's passion was his family and helping anyone in need. Danny loved everybody and everybody loved him. The world is missing one of its brightest lights with his passing.

He is survived by his brother Gilbert Ramirez, sister Julia Martinez, wife Eve Somers Ramirez, son Daniel Lee Ramirez, daughters Katherine Irene Lopez, Rita Veneranda Jimenez, six grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.