Daniel Francis O'Brien

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Daniel Francis O’Brien on December 29, 2024, at the age of 75. Dan passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and love.

Dan was born on May 27, 1949, in Chicago, Illinois, to John Raymond and Anne Catherine O’Brien. He grew up in Oak Park as one of ten brothers, shaping the strong family bonds that became the foundation of his life.

A proud patriot, Dan served honorably in the United States Army as part of the Big Red One Division. His service included a tour in Germany from March 25, 1967, to January 16, 1969, followed by a tour in Vietnam from February 23, 1969, to October 10, 1969. During his distinguished military career, Dan earned several honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and an Overseas Bar. He was also awarded a certification as an Expert with the M-14 rifle, this was a challenge to achieve and displays his exceptional marksmanship in the military. These accolades stand as a testament to his bravery, skill, and unwavering dedication to his country. He was known for his toughness, his fighting spirit, and his warrior mentality.

After his military service, Dan embarked on a journey of entrepreneurship and created a beautiful family with his beloved wife, Patti O’Brien. Dan and Patti met at Colonial Cafe in St. Charles, Illinois, and eloped at the Wheaton courthouse on December 22, 1970. They later celebrated their union with a Catholic church wedding on May 15, 1971, embarking on 54 years of love and partnership. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Erin, Keegan, and Liam.

Dan's middle name, Francis, was inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, the Catholic Church's patron saint of animals. This connection to St. Francis shaped Dan’s unconditional love for animals and his remarkable ability as a “dog whisperer.” His deep bond with animals reflected his compassion and nurturing spirit, which extended to every relationship in his life.

Dan’s family grew into the next generation, bringing him endless pride and joy. Erin and her husband Paul welcomed three incredible kids: Brennan, Skye, and Aidan. Liam and his wife Amy added their own crew: Orin, Neva, and Hayes. Keegan rounded it all out with Ava and Adeline. Dan lived for his role as a grandfather, relishing every opportunity to share his love, wisdom, and life lessons. He had an incredible ability to make them laugh.

Dan will be remembered for having a heart of gold, always going above and beyond for his family members and friends, and for his countless selfless acts to help and inspire others. He radiated love to everyone he was around, creating an atmosphere of warmth and kindness wherever he went. He had a passion for cooking, baking and loved sharing meals with family and friends.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents Ray and Anne, his brother Pat (Rose), his brother Casey, and his infant son Timothy.

He is survived by his wife Patti; their children Erin (Paul), Keegan, and Liam (Amy); and his seven brothers Mike (Nancy), Terry (Kathleen), Jack (Susan), Kevin (Patty), Brian (Mari An), Dennis (Kathi), and Kelly (Connie).

A visitation for Daniel will be held Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 10:00 am until the time of his memorial service at 12:00 pm at Malone Funeral Home, 324 E. State Street (Route 38), Geneva

Dan’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him, inspiring kindness and love for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Dan's name can be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation. https://t2t.org/

Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306

For more information 630-232-8233 or www.malonefh.com.

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