Embarking on his next adventure, Daniel R. Pino peacefully took his flight to heaven with his much-deserved angel wings on Oct. 11, 2024, in Belen, NM surrounded by his loving family. He was born on Nov. 24, 1938, in Ajo, Arizona, to Francisco and Josephine Pino. Throughout his life, Daniel made his home in various places, including Superior, AZ, where he lived on and off, and spent significant time in California, Silver City, and ultimately retired in Belen, NM.
Daniel was known for his vibrant personality, his laughter, and his passion for life. He worked for many years as aproduce manager in grocery stores, leaving a lasting impact on those who worked with him. Daniel served in the Air Force, where he had the opportunity to travel across Europe, make countless lifelong friends, and serve his country with pride. His friends and family fondly remember him as the life of the party—always cracking jokes, dancing, and delivering the best Cantinflas impersonations. But most of all, he will be remembered for his beautiful singing voice, which he shared with anyone who would listen.
In his spare time, Daniel enjoyed gardening and painting, finding joy in the simple pleasures of life. His vibrant spirit will be dearly missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and music will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Daniel will be laid to rest beside his beloved daughter, April, who passed away as a teenager. He is survived by his lifetime partner, Mary Helen Casillas, who brought him joy and companionship in his later years; his children, Ruth Casillas and Daniel Jr., along with their mother, Waldine Pino Pirkey; and his four grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Esther Leyba, David Pino, and Stella Pino, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Francisco and Josephine Pino, his brother, Diego Pino, and his daughter, April Pino.
Services for Daniel will be held on March 18, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Superior, AZ, with burial to follow immediately after Mass.
May Daniel’s soul rest in peace, and may his memory continue to bring comfort and joy to all who loved him.