Damon Alan Runyon

Damon Alan Runyon

Safe in the arms of Jesus, safe on his gentle breast: There by his love O’ shadowed, sweetly my soul shall rest.

Damon Alan Runyon went to be with Jesus on February 27, 2022 in Perth, Australia. His beloved daughter Emma, his wife Kirsten, and family members were by his side caring or him as he passed. He fought a courageous battle against colon/liver cancer for over two years. He was 48 years old. He will be greatly missed by his family and those who loved him.

Damon was born in Visalia, CA. on May 1, 1973. He was raised in Woodlake until he moved to Visalia in 1987. He was the third son born to Tom Runyon and Ann Runyon Haney. He had many interests connected to sports, but basketball was his greatest talent. His height made him a natural for the game. He played for Redwood High School, Clovis West High School, and then he was recruited to play for the University of Oregon. He took great pride in being a Duck. After graduating from Oregon University, he moved to Perth to play on a semi-pro basketball team. As a player he traveled extensively throughout Australia and the world. In 2001 he moved to Tasmania for 4 years, where his daughter Emma was born. After retiring from basketball, Damon returned to Perth where he lived the remainder of his life. He was employed at St. Anne’s Catholic Hospital in Perth as a Supervisor of Material Management.

Damon traveled to California many times over the years and remained close to his family and friends. Golfing, camping in the mountains, taking his daughter to Disneyland, and big family cookouts are just a few of many things Damon enjoyed. Each time he visited he reminded his family of how beautiful the beaches were in Australia. He truly loved the ocean and never wanted to leave Australia. He Facetimed often, but still acknowledged our homes were 10,000 miles apart.

He is survived by his wife Kirsten, daughter Emma Kate; stepsons Liam and Jake; his father Tom Runyon and wife Genevieve, his Mother Ann Haney and husband Ken, his brother Jeffrey Runyon; Uncle Larry Butts and Aunt Cheryl; Aunt Lana Burger; Uncle Dwayne Runyon and Aunt Liz; and Uncle Jerry Runyon and Aunt Pam. He also leaves behind cousins, and lifelong friends.

Damon was preceded in death by his brother William (Bill) Runyon.

A Funeral Service was held for Damon in Perth, on March 10, 2022. Through Zoom technology many family members, and friends were able to be a part of the service. 

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