Verne Disney Obituary

Obituary for Verne Warren Disney Jr.

1925 - 2025

Verne Warren Disney Jr., a proud member of the Greatest Generation, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on April 16, 2025 at the age of 99. Born in 1925 in San Dimas, California to Nelma and Verne Disney, Verne's life was marked by deep devotion-to his country, his community, and most of all, his family.

As a child, Verne moved throughout Los Angeles and Kern Counties before graduating from George Washington High School. At the age of 17, with his mother's permission, he enlisted early in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. It was there that he trained to fly his beloved P-51 Mustang, a plane that remained dear to him all his life.

After the war, Verne returned to Los Angeles and joined the L.A. City Fire Department in 1947, beginning a long and impactful career. He met the love of his life, Rose Marie Montano, and they married in 1949. Together, they built their life in the San Fernando Valley and raised five children.

An advocate for safety and fairness, Verne was instrumental in a landmark case that went to the California Supreme Court, compelling the city to provide uniforms and protective equipment for its firefighters. He also volunteered to serve in one of the first racially integrated firehouses in Los Angeles, helping to pave the way for equality within the department. Rising through the ranks to become a Task Force Commander II, Verne was admired not only for his unmatched work ethic, but also for his good humor, memorable antics, and especially for coaching and mentoring countless aspiring young men to help them realize their dream of becoming firefighters.

After retiring in 1979, Verne and Rose traveled throughout California in their motorhome, enjoying the freedom they had worked so hard to earn. Known as a jack-of-all-trades and master of many, Verne was a gifted mechanic, watchmaker, inventor, builder, plumber, electrician, and carpenter. Friends, family, and neighbors knew they could count on him, and he was always glad to lend a hand. One of his hallmarks was the great big bear hug that he loved to give everyone. Verne, an avid fisherman, was in remarkable health, and was an inspiration to everyone as he continued his daily walks right up to the time of his passing.

Those who knew Verne will remember his signature response to the question, "How are you?"-a cheerful, "You know me, I'm wonderful." And wonderful he was. Verne was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He cherished his family above all and found his greatest joy in the time he spent with them.

Verne is preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 70 years, Rose; his son, Verne; his granddaughter, Laura; and great-granddaughter, Maya. He is survived by his four children, Deb Disney, Daphne Capaldi, Celes Miller, and Dennis Disney, 11 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and his beloved caretaker, Patrick Dy, all of whom carry his legacy forward with love and pride.

A celebration of Verne's remarkable life will take place on May 18. His memory will be cherished always, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.