Daniel James Mahon, 80, of Hackettstown, NJ, passed away on February 24th after a valiant fight with cancer.
Daniel (Dan) was born on July 27th, 1940, to Daniel and Florence Mahon in Jersey City, NJ. The oldest of 12 children, Dan grew up in Gillette, NJ, where he developed his sense of adventure and a great love of the outdoors, exploring the Great Swamp and surrounding areas. Curious and technically inclined from an early age, Dan could be found rebuilding cars, boats, even an airplane with parts from local junkyards or operating his HAM radio. After graduating from Bailey Ellard High School in 1958, Dan worked as an electronics technician at Harrison Labs before enlisting in the Army Corp of Engineers. As a member of 93D Engineer Company, Dan completed a tour of duty in Germany and was awarded a Good Conduct Medal before being honorably discharged.
Dan met his wife of 53 years, Pat, through a ski club in Plainfield, close to where Pat was a ninth-grade history teacher. Their favorite place to ski was Vermont, and it became a special place for them. Together, they returned every year, introducing their three children, six grandchildren, extended family, and friends to the beautiful surroundings.
Dan attended the NJ Institute of Technology for engineering and received his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Pace University while working full time for Hewlett Packard. After graduation, he pursued a finance career, ultimately retiring from Thermo Electric, where he was the Chief Financial Officer and Vice President.
Despite his demanding work schedule, Dan always prioritized time with his family and the community. He volunteered as a Boy Scout Leader, served on the Finance Committee at St. Catherine’s Church in Mountain Lakes for over 20 years, participated in the YMCA Indian Princesses and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He loved nothing more than attending the sporting, arts, and musical events of his grandchildren. He could be found cheering at a soccer game, hockey tournament, or cross country meet, or videotaping a dance recital, school musical, or band concert on any given weekend. He loved to share his talents and interests with others, whether it be woodworking, photography, genealogy, or the latest computer technology advances. An Irish man through and through he loved Celtic music, Irish history and appreciated a pint of Guinness or shot of Bailey’s every once in a while.
But most of all, he loved the time he spent with his wife Pat, traveling and exploring new places, playing bridge or scrabble, discussing books they read, movies they watched, listening to music, and enjoying each other’s company.
Dan will be remembered for his kind heart, generous spirit, and independent Irish nature.
He is survived by his wife and sweetheart of 53 years, Olga Patricia Mahon; his children Shelley Dinehart (husband David), Daniel Mahon (wife Carrie) and Chris Mahon; 6 grandchildren, Matthew Dinehart, Abigail Dinehart, Connor Mahon, Chris Mahon, Cayden Mahon, and Kaia Dalrymple; and the many extended family, close friends and neighbors he loved.
A prayer service will be held on Saturday, Feburary 27th at 11 am at Cochran Funeral Home in Hackettstown, NJ. In light of Covid restrictions, family and friends may participate virtually via zoom. An in person memorial mass and celebration of life will be scheduled for later this year when we can gather safely.
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Anne O’Connell says
February 26, 2021 at 12:07 pmDear Pat and Family, my deepest sympathy to you and family on the passing of your beloved husband, a wonderful husband, father and grandfather.
It was my great please to meet him many years ago with my sister Virginia. He is fondly remembered by us. R.I.P. Anne O’Connell (Igoe) UK
Virginia (IGOE) Sweeney says
February 26, 2021 at 1:07 pmDeepest Sympathy to Pat and family on the passing of Dan. I am pleased to have met with him on a trip with my sister to meet my new found cousins in 2007.
John LaPadula says
February 26, 2021 at 1:22 pmDan was a truly good friend and will be greatly missed. Ann and I will keep him in our thoughts and prayers always. If you are remembered you are never gone and I will always remember Dan at every “OWLS” meetings.
Leslie Segal says
February 27, 2021 at 1:35 pmDear Pat, Shelley, Danny and Christopher,
I am so sorry to hear of Dan’s passing. I remember him as a gentle, kind dad and grandad– such a sweet soul. My thoughts are with you all and your kiddos/grandkids.
Sending love from Cleveland,
Leslie and the Segals
Cliff and Wendy says
February 27, 2021 at 4:53 pmDear Shelley, Dave, Matt , Abby and Pat
Thinking of you during this difficult time. The Prayer Service was a beautiful and touching tribute that honored Dan’s life. Blessings and peace to your entire family.
Tony and Ann Beale says
February 27, 2021 at 6:15 pmDear Pat. We were so sorry to hear of Dan’s passing. We have the fondest memories of our times in Mountain Lakes and the friendship that has endured for us and for our children over much time and distance. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Tony and Ann.
Amy Welling says
February 28, 2021 at 4:30 pmDear Mrs. Mahon,
I am so sorry for your loss. I have such fond memories of your husband. I will never forget the trips to Vermont or the time I spent at your house in ML with my mom and dad. He always reminded me of my dad, so it didn’t surprise me that they were such great friends. Much love to you, Danny, Shelley, Chris, and your grandkids.
Scott Weikert says
February 28, 2021 at 8:25 pmShelley and Family: I remember meeting your dad during the end of our Bucknell days together. Celebrations with your family and friends that I will not forget. Wishing you, your mom, Matt, Abby, and Dave peace during this tough time. –Scott
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