Daniel "Dan" Joseph Moniz

Daniel “Dan” Joseph Moniz passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 8, 2018, in Tallahassee, FL, following a long illness. He was born on July 22, 1946, in Fall River, MA. Dan was known for his quick wit, infectious smile, and kind and compassionate spirit. Dan is survived by his loving wife of 40 years Sally Heath Moniz; children Danielle of Tallahassee and Scot (Audra) of Indiana; grandchildren Sam and Emma and great grandchild Ryder all of Indiana; sister Tracey Kenney (Jerry) of TX; brothers Michael Moniz (Susan) of NH and David Moniz (Renay) of MA; brother-in-law Richard Heath (Paula) of NC; and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Dora. Dan was preceded in death by his parents Alice Cabral Moniz and Daniel V. Moniz and mother-in-law Carol Higdon Heath. Dan’s early career as a musician began in the Swansea, MA, public schools. In high school he performed regularly with the Fall River Symphony and the Açoreana Band of Fall River, MA. Dan pursued his musical ambitions while attending Indiana University, studying with the renowned William “Bill” Bell, former tuba player with the John Philip Sousa band and principal tubist with the New York Philharmonic. Upon return to Massachusetts Dan began playing string bass with local musical groups as well as performing as a substitute tubist with the Rhode Island Philharmonic. Dan’s career transitioned to public service bringing him to Alabama, Georgia and finally, Florida. This included positions as a County Manager in Colquitt, Meriwether and Seminole counties in Georgia and Human Resources with the state of Florida. He retired from the Florida Department of Financial Services in 2012. Dan was an avid photo hobbyist and as well as a devoted community volunteer. He was an active participant in the Tallahassee Amateur Radio Society. His interest and activity earned him the “New Ham of The Year” and “Tars and Feathers” awards. Additionally, Dan served as the club president for several years as well as the volunteer coordinator for HAM operators throughout the Gulf coast in the aftermath of hurricane Katrina, which included the evacuation of Tulane Hospital in New Orleans. Dan also volunteered with Leon County Schools and served on the Board of the OxBottom Manor HOA. A memorial service will be held at Episcopal Church of the Advent in Tallahassee at 3 p.m. on Friday, September 28, 2018. In Lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alzheimer's Project, 301 E Tharpe St, Tallahassee, FL 32303; Big Bend Hospice, 1723 Mahan Center Blvd, Tallahassee, FL 32308; or Episcopal Church of the Advent, 815 Piedmont Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32312. The family wishes to thank the staff at YourLife of Tallahassee and Big Bend Hospice for their loving care, comfort, and support during these last months of Dan’s life. Kelly Barber of Bevis Funeral Home (850/385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com )is assisting the Moniz family with their arrangements.

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Daniel "Dan" Joseph Moniz

July 22, 1946 - September 8, 2018