Daniel Richard Mason Sr., 62, of New Port Richey, Florida passed away on February 24th, 2025.
He is survived by his children, Daniel Richard Mason (wife, Kerri Leonard), Jess Kathleen Mason, and grandsons Oliver Richard Mason and Andrew Mitchell Mason, who were all the pride and joy of his life. He also leaves behind his wife Bonnie Lynne (Hansen) Mason and his loving sister Ellen Ann (Mason) McKeon.
He is preceded in death by his father, Richard John Mason, his mother, Rose E. Brzoska, and his brother, Michael Terry Mason.
Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Dan loved Chicago sports (especially the Monsters of the Midway) and instilled this passion unto his children. He loved many genres of music and found it to be his therapy in life. He loved his friends from his youth, John and Andrew “Fuzz”, and told many stories of their memories to his children throughout the years. Most of all, he loved his family. Dan believed that family was the most important thing in life, and the immense love he showed to all those close to him was, undoubtedly, the greatest thing he brought to this world.
He will be so dearly missed by the many lives he touched—for his humor, great strength, and compassionate heart and soul.
In lieu of flowers for our family, we would like to honor Dan’s life through donations to foundations that support two things he felt strongly about.
Dan was very patriotic and supported and respected the service of all veterans, including his father and sister.
Healing Warrior Hearts is a foundation that provides programs for Veterans and their families, dedicated to healing the emotional, moral, and spiritual wounds of military service.
https://www.healingwarriorhearts.org/
In addition, having experienced several traumatic head injuries throughout his life, he was passionate about the recent developmental research of victims of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
The Concussion Legacy Foundation supports patients and families, including athletes and veterans, through their journey with concussions or suspected CTE.
https://concussionfoundation.org/
Kathy Hansen
February 28, 2025, 7:44 pm
Danny was always an important part of our family from day one, I always felt he appreciated us and considered us as his own family. He gave us the absolute best gift ever, our first grandchild (Daniel and granddaughter Jess). It was such a joy to watch him interacting with his own grandsons, who he loved dearly. He will be missed by many, especially his family who he loved so.❤️
John and Barbara Anthony Family
March 1, 2025, 2:34 am
We offer our condolences to all of the family. We were so shocked to hear the news of our dear friend’s passing. Our memories of our young adult lives will always be cherished and never forgotten. We had hoped to meet up soon when we visited Florida again and we didn’t get time to do it. Our loss. Imagining the outcome of our visit would have been John and Dan laughing and bragging to each other about their kids and grandchildren as proud papas. Dan was a wonderful, passionate, loyal friend to us. We spent great times together along the years. He had so much more love to give and so much more love to get. That smile on your face is how we will remember you and you will be greatly missed. We wish the entire family peace and comfort and find strength in each other. Enjoy your memories together as he loved you all so much.
John Everhart
March 1, 2025, 5:39 am
I know we only knew only each other for a short time during Danny’s time with Trinity Mustangs. During that short period it was clear he was an extrodinary man, father and role model. He was always there to assist us on and off the field. He was 1 of the most supportive parents on the sideline during practice and game days! His son Danny was an inspiration as well which was an obvious reflection of his Dad. May you rest in peace my friend and may your family and friends get past this time knowing that you did make a difference.
Danny I am sorry for your loss. You and your dad were always some of my favorite people and I am truely saddened by this news. I will keep you all in my prayers.
Ellen Ann McKeon
March 1, 2025, 11:04 pm
I’ll never forget when Mom first brought you home and your little fists were no bigger than quarters. I loved you instantly and unconditionally, as I have for all of these years. You will be sorely missed.
Angie Bray and Dick and Bray’s Family: Vince, Julie, Jo and Mark
March 2, 2025, 10:03 pm
I knew Dan mostly through his wonderful sister Ellie. Her love for Dan is deep and unconditional. Her heart ached to see the pain he suffered daily.
I pray that the happy memories you two share will sustain her through her grief during this time of sadness 😔
Please know that we will be praying for you and your entire family.