Daniel Edward Warn

Daniel Edward Warn
 1974 – 2025

Daniel Edward Warn, 50, of Needham, Massachusetts, was born in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and lived a life defined by love, adventure, and the profound ability to forge meaningful connections. Though his time with us was far too brief, it was undeniably rich and purposeful. Dan passed away peacefully on April 1, 2025, embraced by the unwavering love of his wife Dara and their three sons, following a courageous two-year journey with brain cancer.

Raised in the Como Lake neighborhood of Saint Paul, Dan cultivated an early passion for the outdoors—whether hunting, fishing, or chopping wood. He grew up surrounded by cousins and a close-knit extended family, and though his adult years took him beyond Minnesota, he never missed a chance to bring people together during his visits home.

After graduating from Cretin-Derham Hall (1992), Dan continued on to the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1996. While there, he ran cross country and track, and embraced every challenge—including his favorite, Mountain Warfare School. West Point was where he formed lifelong bonds with his “Fellas,” whose steadfast friendship carried him through life’s greatest joys and challenges.

After West Point, Dan served as an Armor Officer, beginning his military career at Fort Wainwright in Alaska. He later joined the Massachusetts National Guard, where he led security operations on Air Force bases in the wake of 9/11. Deeply committed to causes close to his heart, Dan turned grief into purpose after the loss of his mother to cancer. Over the next decade, he became an avid fundraiser for cancer research, completing five Pan-Mass Challenge rides and running the Boston Marathon in 2019.

A natural leader, Dan pursued his MBA at Babson College, launching a successful career as a corporate executive known for building high-performing teams and leading cost transformation initiatives. His leadership extended well beyond the office—he was also a mentor, coach, and passionate supporter of those around him.

Dan and Dara first met in 1998 and began their shared journey in 2004. Together, they built a vibrant life in Boston before settling in Needham, which became the cherished home base for their growing family and beloved circle of friends. A devoted father, Dan nurtured unique and meaningful relationships with each of his sons, embracing their individual passions—cheering for Eli on the baseball field, supporting Wyatt’s fierce dedication to basketball, and trekking through the wilderness with Rowan, rain or shine.

A true people person, Dan had a rare gift for making others feel seen and valued. His infectious energy, insatiable curiosity, and boundless kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Whether around his legendary backyard firepit or at work, Dan brought people together with warmth, humor, and genuine care. His heart found its ultimate sanctuary in Nantucket, and it was on the island and at the Hidden Gem where he felt most at peace.

Dan approached his illness with extraordinary grace, courage, and hope. He explored every path to healing—traditional and spiritual—bolstered by the strength of his community and the profound love of his family. In his final year, he became a certified energy healer, hoping to help others experience the joy and connection that had sustained him.

Dan is survived by his beloved wife Dara, and their sons Eli, Wyatt, and Rowan; his father Edward Warn and his partner Mary-Lynn Springer of Howard Lake, MN; his sisters Erin Warn of Minnesota and Megan Wrigg (Kam) of Helena, MT; and his extended family: Susan and Steven Paris of Bedford, NH; Craig and Mary Kate Paris of Hingham, MA; Daniel and Jody Paris of Medfield, MA; along with his adored nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rita Mary Warn; his brother, Matthew Joseph Warn; and his niece, Lily Samantha Parker.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 11th from 2-6pm at the Dedham Country and Polo Club, 124 Country Club Road, Dedham, MA. 

Please note that the event will follow an open house format. You are welcome to come and go at any time within the 4-hour event. A quick note regarding the dress code at the venue: Men are required to wear a collared shirt, tucked in. Denim of any color is not allowed, including jackets, except for white jeans for women, which must be free of tears or frays. Additionally, no hats are permitted inside the Clubhouse.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial donations to The Warn Family Fund, created in Dan’s honor to support glioblastoma brain cancer research. Contributions may be made online at golffightscancer.org/teamdan or by mailing a check payable to Golf Fights Cancer, 300 Arnold Palmer Boulevard, Norton, MA 02766.