Donald Patrick Dailey

Donald Patrick Dailey, a devoted husband, father, and community member, peacefully passed away unexpectedly at his home, alongside his loving and devoted wife Mary, on the morning of March 20, 2025, at the age of 84. He is preceded in death by his mother, Alice N. Hanson (Dailey), his father, Donald F. Dailey, his stillborn twin daughters, his grandson Quenton McMurray, and his son-in-law Sean McMurray. He is survived by his spouse of 55 years, Mary Dailey, his brother Jim (Kathy) Dailey, his sister Darlene Dailey, his two sons, John (Tracy) Dailey and Michael (Vicki) Dailey, his daughter, Brigit McMurray, in addition to his six grandchildren; Tyler & Alyssa, Jacob & Betty and Zackery & Ewan, extended family and friends.

Don was born and raised in St. Paul, MN. Upon graduating from Central High School in 1958, he voluntarily enlisted into the U.S. Armed Forces. He served as a Medic in the U.S. Army for three years, where he spent much of his time stationed in Germany. It was in the military where Don first donated blood. He was a dedicated blood donor from that point on, and over his lifetime Don selflessly donated a generous total of 30 gallons of blood. Donald holds the honor and recognition as top 1% of blood donors; a most impressive milestone that certainly helped save some lives.

After serving our country, Don started his office career at the Great Northern Railway where he met a number of lifelong friends. In 1967 he left the railroad to go work for U.O.P. (later known as Johnson Division of U.O.P.). Originally hired as an Accountant, Don was later promoted to Office Manager and worked for U.O.P. for over 20 years. He often got into work long before his start time because that is when he would get most of his work done, before everyone else showed up. Being punctual was a way of life for Don; he was a most reliable person and somebody who was known to be on time, all the time. With the loving support of his wife Mary, Don pursued and earned an Associate's Degree from Anoka-Ramsey Community College by taking one evening class a semester over the span of 15 years. Prior to retirement Don also spent over ten years working for the City of Minneapolis in their Finance Department. After retirement, Don and Mary volunteered at Unity Hospital for several years.

Bowling was the sport of choice for Don. As a youngster, one of his first jobs was setting up pins at the local bowling alley. He went on to bowl in many leagues and tournaments spanning over several decades. He loved bowling and maintained a solid 180 average. The Dailey family traditionally bowled every Easter Sunday for many, many years.

It was at Falcon Lanes in Falcon Heights where Don met the love of his life, Mary. Don and Mary were married in 1970 at Annunciation Catholic Church in Edina. They settled down in Spring Lake Park, MN where they raised their family and actively participated in the community.

Don was a dedicated father and family man who was very involved in his children's lives growing up. He taught religion classes at St. Timothy's. He also helped coach little league through the Blaine/SLP Athletic Association, and even coached soccer once - a sport he knew very little about - when called upon. Don was a well-liked coach who emphasized teamwork and had a way of including everyone.

Don was a very fair and honest man who exemplified good Christian morals. He will be remembered as a kind, gentle, caring and selfless soul who had a special gift of lifting up others with his unique calmness and humor. He will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew him.

A celebration of Don's life will be held on Thursday April 10th at the Church of St. Timothy, 707 89th Ave NE, Blaine, MN. Visitation will begin at 10AM with Mass starting at 11AM and a luncheon to follow.