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Adeyemi "'David" Aderohunmu posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 26, 2024
Gone too soon.
My heart goes out to Dan McNeil and his family.
I met Dan 7 years ago at the YMCA parking lot. He introduced himself and asked me where I was from. I told him I am from West Africa, Nigeria. Anyone who crossed his path, he was open to them. He was genuinely interested in my profession as a therapeutic exercise specialist.
Ever since then, we’ve been close and he invited me to his office a couple of times. Despite his business success, he included me. Most of our conversations were about life. This man has given me tremendous advice that has still benefited me and impacted me today. While talking in his office, people would be calling him, and he would also give them wonderful advice. These are things people charge for, that he just gave for free. Over the years, seeing Dan treat people and care about people, I connected to him and noticed his character. His accomplishments were great, but he was an even greater person. Gone too soon.
During Covid, I had a brief meeting with Dan at his office. I brought him a custom bowtie facemask, and he laughed and appreciated it so much. In our meeting we had a conversation about essential and non-essential workers. He asked what my 5-year plan was. I told him and he gave me advice yet again. He encouraged me to become a realtor because of the interest I showed. He sent me to a local brokerage in town.
We have texted and called over the years to wish each other well and check on each other. At the beginning of this month, I got the news he passed away. I lost a friend. My mind is still full of memories of our conversations and his friendly/fatherly advice. Chinese philosopher Confucius said, “If your plan is for one year, plant rice; if your plan is for ten years, plant trees; if your plan is for one hundred years, educate children.” Dan’s legacy lives on in the words and generosity he shared. Gone too soon.
God bless,
Adeyemi "David" Aderohunmu
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Mariko Pimental uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, June 12, 2024
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My first memory of Dan is seeing him at the YMCA at 5:30 in the morning. I’d decided to start swimming again after my second daughter was born. Dan was friendly, then a couple weeks after I had been swimming he gently suggested my breaststroke glides would go further if I kept my head down. And it worked. Seeing I took his advice, Dan continued offering swim tips over the next couple of months. Then, Dan being Dan, he asked if I knew how to swim butterfly. I did not. Over the next few months he worked with me to teach me butterfly and hone the other strokes through tips and drills, eventually leading to me competing in a swim meet doing the distance heats.
He always lead with a compliment before offering help. Eventually he would run drills with myself and other swimmers, which are some of my favorite memories of Dan. At Dan’s 90th birthday party at the Y, I got to meet Rose. By then my third daughter had arrived and Dan suggested I bring my girls over to visit with Rose as she loved babies and children. So we did. Rose would hold Amelia and play with my other daughters, Maya and Lily; she seemed so happy. My girls called them “Mr. Dan” and “Mrs. Rose.”
As the years went on the girls and I would bring cookies over and visit with them, Dan telling me not to mind the crumbs the girls left. During summer months the girls and their friends would swim in Dan’s pool and Rose would come watch from the porch area until she was tired. Dan would compliment their swimming or encourage them to try a swim stroke or a backflip. The girls loved having such a patient and attentive audience. In cooler months and when the girls were in school Dan and I would grab hot cocoa and catch up, discuss religion, art, Cortland, and swimming of course. Dan encouraged me to make choices in my life that I couldn’t always understand at the time, but later appreciated.
I am very fortunate I got to have Dan as a friend, and I’m thankful for the role he had in the lives of my daughters. He was always amused and very supportive of my girls and myself, and I appreciated his outlook on life and humor. We will miss him.
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Tami Barrows posted a condolence
Monday, June 10, 2024
My condolences to Mr. McNeil"s family. His joyous attitude and determination, was inspiring to many I'm sure. One, being my husband. Every morning when he bounded up the steps to the Y. and had a conversation with my husband, Jims day was made. Mr. McNeil didn't know it, but Jim was fighting a rare cancer and he was a part of what imspired and encouraged him to believe in the fight, with a great attitude. And to seize the day. I'll always be grateful for that. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
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Greg Roberts posted a condolence
Sunday, June 9, 2024
Back in the late 80's, I worked at ValCom Computers in the McNeil building. I remember numerous instances where Dan would stop by and talk to everyone. As a young man, I was astonished that a busy successful man like him would always find the time to be so friendly to people that would be mere acquaintances to most people in his position. If anyone deserved to live into his 100's, it would be Dan!
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Gerry Gunning posted a condolence
Saturday, June 8, 2024
Our deepest condolences to The McNeil Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Gerry & Ann Gunning & Family
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Constance Mack posted a condolence
Thursday, June 6, 2024
In remembering the Christmas story, A Wonderful Life, I consider Daniel McNeil Cortland’s, George Bailey. He touched many lives in our county. His two sons, Daniel and David are carrying on his legacy. Cortland is blessed they spent their lives here.
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John Cocomazzi lit a candle
Thursday, June 6, 2024
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Dan and Mary, sorry to hear the news about your father sounds like he was a real hero to all.
John Cocomazzi
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Andrew Gallagher posted a condolence
Thursday, June 6, 2024
Dear McNeil Family,
I am writing to extend my deepest condolences and to pay tribute to Dan McNeil, a remarkable man whose kindness and generosity have left an indelible mark on my life.
Dan and my mom shared a camaraderie during their morning swims at the YMCA. They would often update each other on their lives, and it was during one of these conversations that my mom mentioned I was about to graduate from college and begin my job search. Dan didn't hesitate to help, he referred me to Dan III and Mary at McNeil & Co.; a gesture that would forever change the course of my life.
I vividly remember walking into his office with my resume in hand. To my surprise, I was given an on-the-spot interview with Dan III. Nervous and inexperienced, I fumbled through it, convinced that I had blown my chance. However, Dan III took the time to sit down with me afterwards and candidly pointed out all the mistakes I had made. Rather than discouraging me, he turned it into a valuable life lesson about the importance of making the most of great opportunities.
That moment was transformative. It not only taught me crucial interview skills but also instilled in me the confidence to pursue my goals. Thanks to Dan's guidance and the opportunity he facilitated, I have spent the past eight years working at McNeil & Co., a company I am proud to be a part of.
Dan's kindness and willingness to help others will always be remembered and cherished. He had a unique ability to see potential in people and to guide them towards their paths. I am profoundly grateful for the impact he had on my life and will carry his lessons with me always.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the countless lives Dan touched and the legacy of generosity and compassion he leaves behind. He truly embodied my favorite Greek proverb, “A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they shall never sit.”
With heartfelt sympathy,
Drew Gallagher
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rpartigianoni posted a condolence
Thursday, June 6, 2024
Very sad to hear of the passing of Mr. McNeil, what an amazing man !!
RIP sir
God bless him
Rick Partigianoni
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STEPHEN (Beanie) KNOBEL posted a condolence
Thursday, June 6, 2024
For more than 55 years, I had the honor of knowing Mr. McNeil and his family. Many hours spent in the music store looking for that special record. Chance to play tennis with young Dan, even earning NY State Tennis title back in the seventies. So many other memories too long to list, but one special memory was talking to him at his 100th birthday party. He remembered me after all the years past, and that was special.
Beanie (Stephen F Knobel)
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Brian Tobin posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 5, 2024
A conversation with Dan would leave me feeling richer for the experience. He was always willing to share his knowledge in a kind manner. He's missed.
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Mary McLaughlin posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 5, 2024
I am sending my heartfelt sympathies to Danny, Peter, Paul, Anne, Mary and David on the passing of your dear father, Dan. He was a wonderful man and your Mom, Rose, was a lovely lady. I always enjoyed the times I spent with all of you when you were kids. You were fortunate to have two loving parents!
Rest in peace, Dan!
Mary McAuliffe McLaughlin (Cookie)
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Philip Connery posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 5, 2024
I met Dan in 1984 when I moved into the community. It was at the YMCA, of course. He was such a kind man and very friendly, made me feel welcome. It was a pleasure to have known him all these years, equally a pleasure to know many of his family members. RIP Sir!
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Sheila Cohen posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 5, 2024
Dan was a generous supporter of the Cultural Council and Cortland Arts Connect, particularly the music at the Arts & Wine Festival.
His contributions to the community are also noteworthy!
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Bob Kaussner posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 4, 2024
Dan was a great man who was very close friends with my father (Roland) for many years.
Both Dan and my father were WWII veterans who shared similar values, which included a strong, mutual love for music.
They played in a band together (along with Dan's brother John) for several years until Dan and John talked my father into working for them once they opened McNeil Music.
Initially, my father (a classically-trained pianist) sold pianos and organs for McNeil music by demonstrating the instruments at county fairs, within their stores, and at people's private residences.
Eventually (thanks to Dan and John), my father Roland was able to make a full-time living for several decades teaching piano and organ lessons via McNeil Music studios in Cortland, Ithaca, and Vestal which he truly loved.
After Dan's brother John passed, Dan remained a loyal friend and advocate of my father; making certain that he maintained a studio space for my father as long as he wanted. This was a consistent, unyielding loyalty which lasted for many more years, even after McNeil Music was closed.
Dan was also the very last person to remain at my father's funeral, which included humbly remaining until the very end of the post-funeral dinner at the Hollywood Restaurant. Dan's generosity, care, and loyalty to our father and to our family is very much appreciated, and is something that we will be forever grateful for.
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Karen Hempson posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 4, 2024
To Mary and the McNeil family - I never read such a beautiful obit and tribute to your Dad. I did not personally know him., but could see how remarkable a man he was to raise such grounded and respected children - as Mary’s teacher, I could appreciate the profound influence he and her Mom had on her.
What a life well-lived. Sending love and light to the McNeil family. Karen Hempson.
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Joe & Claudia Natale lit a candle
Tuesday, June 4, 2024
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Our deepest condolences to The McNeil Family. Our thoughts are with you all.
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Bob Haight posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 4, 2024
Dan,
What a wonderful life you lived and many will cherish the memories and legacy you have left. When I interview you in 2020 for The Chamber Annual Dinner, I could have listened to you for hours. It is a highlight of my career. Your love of Cortland, local business, family, swimming, and God stand out to me. While I know you have thousands who call you friend, I'm honored to counted among them. I'll miss you but I celebrate your life and know you have Rose at your side again. Until we meet again...
Bob Haight
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Rosemary Burns posted a condolence
Monday, June 3, 2024
I enjoyed seeing and talking to Dan at the Ymca in the pool.
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Patricia (Patty) Masterson-Race lit a candle
Monday, June 3, 2024
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Patricia (Patty) Masterson-Race posted a condolence
Monday, June 3, 2024
Your dad, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend was an absolute treasure. I will always remember him with love and respect. My deepest condolences to the McNeil family.
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Ossit Family lit a candle
Monday, June 3, 2024
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Keeping The McNeil Family in our thoughts and prayers.
The Ossit Family (Kevin, Sheila, Zack, Nathan and Maggie)
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Brenda Allen lit a candle
Monday, June 3, 2024
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My Condolences to the McNeil Family.-
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Patricia ‘Patti’ (O’Connell) Stewart posted a condolence
Monday, June 3, 2024
I remember times at the McNeil home with Mary, Anne and David and their Aunt Henrietta and Uncle John’s family . It was a full house and Mr. and Mrs. McNeil were so nice to include our family in their family gathering. I will remember their beautiful pool and the fun we had on those visits. Your family has so many blessings and memories that will carry you through this time.
As my sister Mary wrote, our family was elated when Mr. McNeil and David came to our Mom’s funeral service and stayed after to visit with us. That gesture meant the world to all of us and shows what a kind and thoughtful man he truly was.
Patti (O’Connell) Stewart
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Father John Rose posted a condolence
Monday, June 3, 2024
While I was only blessed to meet Dan in the later years of his life I was immediately touched by this man of faith. He was very unassuming, humble and a man of compassion and deep kindness and goodness.
Well done good and faithful servant. Now enter the peace of eternal life. Father John Rose
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The family of Daniel F. McNeil uploaded a photo
Monday, June 3, 2024
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Please wait
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Mary McCabe posted a condolence
Monday, June 3, 2024
On behalf of the family of Bob and Ruth O’Connell I offer my sincere condolences to all of you. Our families shared many wonderful times growing up. Your mom and dad were very special people.
I remember working banquets at The Assembly in Cortland and listening to bands there during high school.
When my mother passed away in 2023 I was beyond honored that your father, along with David came up to Baldwinsville to celebrate her funeral mass. It meant so much to all of us having them there.
There is a wonderful poem called “The Dash”, It states that the dash between one’s date of birth and death is the “dash in between”. Your father lived his dash giving to others, loving life, and being a great example of how to live a good life.
Love to all of you,
Mary K.O’Connell McCabe
As a side note, Pete, please get hold of my brother, Paul so we can reconnect, big high school reunion next year and I want to give you details.
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Breta Sisson posted a condolence
Monday, June 3, 2024
What a wonderful pleasure to have known Dan! I served on several boards with him and had a wonderful relationship. He never forgot who I was! He was a delight! Breta C. Sisson