Dan Robert Hada

Dan Robert Hada passed away on December 7, 2018, in Houston, Texas. Dan was born in Watsonville, California to Isamu “Sam” and Toyo “T” Hada on November 24, 1940. The family made several moves across the country before settling in San Marcos, Texas in the early 1950’s where Dan grew up. As a young teenager, Dan made Manske rolls at Manske’s Restaurant where the famous rolls originated. In the mid-50’s, Dan became lifelong friends with American singer, Roy Head. Their antics started off early; the two would hitchhike to Houston on weekends for “various adventures” only to head back in time for school by Monday. Dan played football for San Marcos High School and graduated in 1958.   

Dan eventually joined the United States Marine Corps and served in Vietnam. He was trained as a distinguished Scout Sniper and was well-respected by those who served with him and by those whom he trained. Typical of Dan, he managed several combat extensions as a result of conveniently “missing his flights” each time. Eventually his superiors caught on and with the help of the MP’s, Dan's tours in Vietnam were over and he returned to the States. Over the course of his military service spanning from 1959 to 1970, Sergeant Hada earned several medals including the Purple Heart and the Navy Commendation Medal.   

After his military service, Dan settled in the Houston area where he worked at various restaurant and bartending jobs before joining McClelland Engineering and working his way up to Soil Technician and later on to Fugro-McClelland Marine Geosciences Inc. His work took him to Africa, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, or better yet “places nobody wanted to go”, and everywhere in between.  Upon semi-retirement, in 2009 Dan formed Geo-Global Consulting, LLC, where he provided geotechnical consulting and QC/QA Soil Investigation services. 

Dan’s hobbies included hunting at area deer leases, reloading, and bullseye competition. He enjoyed attending 7th Marine Scout Sniper Platoon reunions across the country over the years with many of his Marine comrades. These elite, highly skilled Marines share a special bond that goes above and beyond the “The Few and the Proud”.

Dan is survived by his loving wife, Margaret “Peggy” Hada; stepson, Tracy Williams; brothers, Gene Hada and Howard (Clara) Hada of New Braunfels; sisters, Patty (Jehu) Derrickson and Gloria (Jonathan) Snell of San Marcos; numerous nieces and nephews; and longtime friend, Roy Head.  Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and “T” Hada, and sister Lucille Hada. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  Please feel free to  leave a personal message on how you met Dan and/or any fond memories you may have.

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