Dan Lew

Dan Lew, a longtime Davis resident, passed away unexpectedly at age 52 on March 22, 2025 at Sutter Medical Center in Sacramento, surrounded by loved ones.

Born and raised in Santa Rosa, Dan attended local public schools and Montgomery High School. After brief stints at UC Santa Cruz and Sonoma State University, Dan found his way to UC Davis, graduating with a B.S. in Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning and a Masters and Ph.D. in Agriculture and Resource Economics. Dan began working for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association in 2003 and continued his work there until his untimely passing. Dan devoted his career to not only contributing to social science research both nationally and internationally but also to mentoring many students and colleagues over the years in their educational and career pursuits.

But what made Dan truly special was the way he made people feel. He genuinely and wholeheartedly loved his family and friends. His smile brightened people’s days, and his straightforward, non-judgmental demeanor made people feel safe and comfortable. He was usually the brightest light in the room with the kindest and gentlest heart.

He pursued his passions of soccer, guitar, and running with energy and drive. Dan loved to challenge himself, cherished small victories, surrounded himself with caring and fun people, rooted on his favorite European football team Arsenal, binge watched many Korean dramas, and was an excellent conversationalist. He balanced a perfect combination of hard work, responsibility, spontaneity, laughter, and creativity.

Dan loved all dogs, especially German Shepherds, and provided warm and nurturing homes to both Boomer and Lulu (yes, Lulu Lew!). His dream was to eventually provide a safe space for all dogs in need of a good home and dog parent.

Dan is survived by his wife Kara Ueda; parents Leonard and Christina Lew; brothers Jonathan and Ryan Lew (Lydia Lam); niece Bella Lew; nephew Julian Lew; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and in-laws; and many dear friends and colleagues who were like family.

Dan’s family and friends mourn a life cut way too short.

A celebration of life is pending.

Donations in Dan’s name may be made to the Solano County SPCA, any German Shepherd rescue, or the Agricultural and Resource Economics Division of the UC Davis College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences