Daniel Herschel Platus

Daniel Herschel Platus, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and accomplished aerospace engineer, passed away peacefully at his home in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, on August 18, 2026, at the age of 94. A lifelong resident of Los Angeles County, Dan built a life defined by intellectual curiosity, dedication to his family, service to his country, and a passion for music, fitness, and adventure.

Dan was born on January 19, 1932, to Ethel and Sam Platus. He was raised in Inglewood, California, and remained connected to Los Angeles County throughout his life. After living in Marina del Rey, Dan and his wife, Judy, first made their home in Westchester before moving to Rancho Palos Verdes in 1974, where they raised their family and shared more than five decades of life together. He was raised in the Jewish faith and continued his devotion to Judaism and its traditions throughout his life.

Dan's remarkable academic career reflected his lifelong love of learning and science. He earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from UCLA, where he was on the gymnastics team and participated in the ROTC program. He and his brother went on to attend Nuclear Reactor School in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where Dan earned a master’s degree in Nuclear Engineering. He then returned to UCLA and earned a doctorate degree in Physics.

His education led to a distinguished career in service to his country in the aerospace industry. Dan served in the U.S. Air Force and became an accomplished aerospace engineer. He spent much of his professional career at The Aerospace Corporation in El Segundo, where he became well known and highly respected for his work in flight dynamics and laser technology. His contributions reflected both his technical expertise and his commitment to advancing important work in aerospace and national defense.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Dan had a remarkable range of interests and passions. Throughout his life, he was very committed to regular exercise and fitness, as this was a high priority for him and an important part of his identity. In addition to being a UCLA gymnast, he was an active sailor, windsurfer, skier, bicyclist, and hiker. He became a step-aerobics instructor and enjoyed sharing his enthusiasm for fitness with others. He also was an avid rose gardener, bringing the same attention to his garden that he brought to so many other pursuits.

Music was another important part of Dan's life. An accomplished pianist and saxophone player, he loved jazz and performed in many settings—as a soloist and as a member of trios, quartets, and big bands. His musical life included marching band performances at the Rose Bowl, and teaching piano, sharing his knowledge and love of music with others.

Dan also gave his time and musical talents to his community. He served as the Music Volunteer Coordinator at Torrance Memorial Medical Center, helping bring music to the hospital and creating opportunities for others to share their music with patients and staff. He was recognized for his more than 6,000 hours of service there and even featured in the Peninsula News and on the local television news program. Music was not simply a hobby for Dan; it was a lifelong source of creativity, connection, and a conduit for his generosity.

Family was at the heart of Dan's life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy Platus, whom he cherished throughout their life together. He is also survived by his daughter, Maria Vargas, a retired elementary school teacher, and his son, Steve Vargas, a family physician, and daughter-in-law, Susan. Dan was a proud grandfather to Sarah, Ellie, Ben, and Sophie Vargas, and his family remained an important source of love and pride throughout his life. His family loved him dearly and all were with him and surrounding him at the end of his remarkable life.

Dan is also survived by his dear brother, David Platus, and David's wife, Sheryl Colby. He was close with David’s daughter, Julie, as well. His sister, Lucy Schwartz, predeceased him. Lucy was the mother of Daniel's very close nieces, Terry Schwartz and Nancee Schwartz.

Dan lived his life with a combination of intellect, dedication, curiosity, energy, and enthusiasm. From his service in the Air Force and distinguished career in aerospace to his lifelong commitment to fitness, his love of jazz and music, and his many outdoor pursuits, he left behind a legacy extending far beyond his professional accomplishments.

He will be deeply missed by Judy, Maria, Steve and Susan, Sarah, Ellie, Ben, and Sophie, David and Sheryl, Terry and Nancee, Julie, and many other family members, friends, and colleagues whose lives he touched. Dan and Judy have given generously to many charities throughout their lives. If you are so inclined, our family invites you to make a donation in honor of Dan to a meaningful charity of your choice.

Dan’s memory will always be cherished, and his remarkable life will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.