Daniel Lawrence Moneypenny

Daniel Lawrence Moneypenny

Dan Moneypenny spent his life in the sky—and somehow still managed to keep the rest of us grounded.

Born on August 9, 1951, to Charles and Amy Moneypenny (both deceased), Dan charted his course early. He studied aviation at Kent State University and became a Senior Flight Instructor at the Kent State Airport. On the first day of one class, a young woman walked into the airport looking for her instructor—Dan Moneypenny. Without missing a beat, he said, “He’s upstairs”—despite the building being one story. That woman was Beve Waterman, who would become his wife, his co-pilot, and his constant for the decades that followed.

Dan began his corporate aviation career with the DiBartolo Corporation, where he flew executives as well as the San Francisco 49ers and the Pittsburgh Penguins. He then joined USAir, which became US Airways, and eventually American Airlines. He outlasted them all. Through mergers, retirements, and rebrandings, he never lost his love for the work—or the wonder. He often said he still got a rush on takeoff and landing. It was where he felt most alive. We like to think he’s flying high now, free of turbulence.

Dan is survived by his wife, Beve Moneypenny; his children, Chaz, Wade (with girlfriend Andrea and their beloved dog Bowie), and Calvin (with wife Jackie and son Sullivan, who gave him the title of Grandpa); his brother Hal Moneypenny (wife Jeannie, deceased); his sister Jayne Ashby (husband Ernie); a wide network of friends, fellow aviators, and a family of many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, his infant brother Hank, and is remembered by all who knew him as thoughtful, steady, and fiercely loyal—especially to his friends.

Dan’s friendships spanned decades and distances. He and his closest circle of aviation buddies called themselves the OPS: the Old Pilots Squadron. They were more than colleagues—they were family in flight suits.

He taught his kids the value of trust, loyalty, thrift, and to speak softly while carrying a big stick. He took pride in his work and believed that a job worth doing was worth doing well. After retirement, he found peace and purpose in his bee hives—his “girls”—tending them with the same quiet patience and care he brought to the cockpit.

He was a pilot, a teacher, a father, a beekeeper, and a true gentleman. He didn’t make a fuss—but he left a mark.

In lieu of a formal service, the family will hold a celebration of Dan’s life on his birthday, August 9th, 2025. Those who wish to attend may contact the family directly for details.

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