RIP Tiki Diablo (aka. Danny Gallardo) - June 14th, 1971 - February 5th, 2026

A lot of us are connected to Daniel "Tiki Diablo" Gallardo outside of this site, but given his massive contributions to the community it's only appropriate that we give tribute here.

I probably haven't known Daniel as long as some of you, but he was a solid dude inside and out. A top professional, an impressive talent, and an incredible human being. I saw him a few months ago at The Warehouse for a Shipwrecked event and we had a nice long chat. I'm trying to recall if I ever heard or read the word 'cancer' from his social media but I don't think so. Either way it was a surprise, and fuck cancer.

Feel free to share any fond memories you have of Diablo, or maybe your favorite mug or work of art of his. Rest in peace.

Whoa, I am shocked and saddened by the loss of one of our best. I met Danny for the first time at a tiki event where he was kind enough to sell me one of his limited rum barrel mugs and sign it. I still have it. Many others who knew and worked with him will have much more to share. But dang, he was truly a nice guy and will be missed. Condolences to his family and friends. May we all memorialize Danny through our memories and stories wherever and whenever we gather together. I will raise a Mai-Tai to this fine gentleman tonight in his honor. Hell, I’ll make that a Zombie! That’s what he would want.

Me and Danny at Coontiki in 2006. Damn almost 20 years ago now. What a natural talent and friendly, cool dude. Such a great legacy he leaves to us but we’d rather have him than all his work. Peace be with you my friend and may your soul rejoice in the Lord above forever. !

So sad to hear of his passing as a classic Tiki artist and a really nice person. Remember rushing out to Home Depot to buy some of the designs he did for the company. Still see them every day in my Tiki room. Thank you Danny!