Daniel "Danny" Julian Conner

In Loving Memory of Daniel “Danny” Julian Conner
April 6, 1957 – June 29, 2025

Daniel Julian Conner—known to everyone simply as Danny—passed away peacefully at his home outside of Kerrville, Texas, on June 29th, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. He was 68 years old.

Danny was born on April 6, 1957 in Houston, Texas, to Julian and Bonnie Conner. He graduated from Spring Woods High School and attended college at Southwest Texas State in San Marcos, where he met  the love of his life and future wife of 35 years, Debbie Wartko.

From an early age, Danny's life was marked by adventure, curiosity, and a deep love of animals—especially reptiles. His passion became his  life’s work. Known by some as “the Steve Irwin of Central Texas,” Danny traveled across the country and beyond, educating children and adults alike through his engaging and unforgettable reptile shows. He was a nationally respected reptile/ crocodilian expert with crocodilians being his specialty. At one point, he cared for 23 of the world’s 26 crocodilian species, along with anacondas, pythons, boas, giant lizards, and turtles. Two of his favorites were Spartacus, an ancient alligator snapping turtle and frequent star of his shows, and Anarchy, a 16-foot saltwater crocodile who looked every bit like a living dinosaur. But he loved them all.

Before launching his own business, Danny led a colorful life. He worked as a bartender—and later manager—at iconic college bars like Animal House, Footloose, and others; served as a roughneck on oil  rigs; worked as a medic at Hays County Jail; was a keeper at the San Antonio Zoo; and also worked at the landmark Snake Farm.

Even while still in school, Danny stood out. He was a member of the Safari Singers, the Mime Troupe, and was elected High School Homecoming King. He had a natural charisma and a gift for performance. A man of many talents, he was also a gifted photographer, but much of his creative focus later turned toward writing. His storytelling and humor shone in the essays and letters he shared with friends and family—filled with wit, insight, and vivid detail—many recounting his travels and unforgettable experiences on the road. His family hopes to publish a collection of these writings in the future.

Danny was one of a kind—adventurous, strong, funny, and kind. He possessed a deep well of humility and a gift for connecting with people, especially children. He loved their candor and curiosity, and eagerly answered their endless questions about his animals. For many young fans, meeting Danny sparked a lifelong love of nature—and for some, the dream of growing up to be just like him.

Danny knew what it meant to be a real man—strong and sensitive, honest and grounded. He was always true to himself... always just “Danny.” He was universally loved by those who knew him—a rare soul who could be both tough and understanding, wise and hilarious. He was also the best man at seven weddings, a testament to the deep friendships he built and the admiration his friends had for him.

Danny’s life was proof that passion, courage, and kindness can leave a legacy far beyond one’s years. He will be deeply missed—and joyfully remembered.

Danny was preceded in death by his loving parents, Julian Jefferson Conner of Cameron, Texas, and Bonnie Jean Conner of Houston, Texas.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie Wartko-Conner; his siblings: David Conner and wife Cheryl, and their children Dylan, Claire, and Hannah; Deborah Horehlad and husband Rich, and their children Andrew, Sarah, and Lydia; Candy Carpenter, and her son Conner; and Priscilla Upham. He also leaves behind countless friends, fans, and the many “critters” that made up his one-of-a-kind extended family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 3rd, 2025 at 5:30pm at Moon Shadow Haven, details below. 

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