Danny Sisson, a retired correctional lieutenant, passed away Sept. 15, 2023.
He began his career with the department as a cadet in February 1990.
After graduating the Basic Correctional Officer Academy, he reported for duty at Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility. Three years later, he transferred to the Correctional Training Facility.
In November 1996, he transferred to Salinas Valley State Prison.
Sisson promoted to Correctional Sergeant in February 2000, then transferred to High Desert State Prison in January 2002. He promoted to correctional lieutenant in June 2008, remaining at High Desert until retiring in April 2016.
“Dan will be remembered for his professionalism, hard work ethics, sense of humor, and dedication to his family. Our deepest condolences are extended to his family and friends during this difficult time,” according to a statement issued by the institution.
Before joining CDCR, Sisson was a US Marine. His son followed in his footsteps, joining the Marine Corps and maintaining a career in law enforcement.
“Dan enjoyed living life to the fullest, prioritizing family first, adoring his wife, spending lake days with his kids, and caring for his grandchildren,” according to his friends. “Dan would often say, ‘Well, you’re family now.’ It exemplified his ability to make everyone around him feel welcome, protected, and immediately bonded. He was larger than life both in stature and personality. He’d be the first to give you the shirt off his back. The depths of his loyalty were unmatched.”
He is survived by his wife, son, and daughter.
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.