Daniel M. Johnson

Loving son, husband, father, grandfather, coach, role model, mentor and Orangeman, Daniel M. Johnson, 68, of Westvale, passed away Saturday, July 12, 2014 at Crouse Hospital surrounded by his loving family. A lifetime resident of the Syracuse area, he was a 1964 graduate of St. John the Evangelist. Dan retired in 2009 from Johnson Associates and previously worked for Gordon Tobacco Co., GE and Merchants Bank. While at Merchants Bank, he broke the all-time record for collections going back to 1933. Growing up, he enjoyed competitive sports and was part of many championship teams and was inducted to the New York State Softball Hall of Fame in 2011. Dan's softball teams were the best in CNY for years. His teams won five state tournaments. An avid golfer, Dan won two club championships. The first win was at Camillus Country Club in 1989 and then the Links at Sunset Ridge in 1999. He had four holes-in-one. He played chess and also won the Syracuse City Championship in tennis. Dan was a beloved Syracuse University sports fan and had many encounters and conversations with the athletes throughout the years. He was responsible for getting the Ernie Davis statue, unveiled it and became close friends with the sculptor and his wife. Dan was a major contributor to the SU message board Syracusefan.com and was known as the beloved Orangeyes. Most of all, Dan enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his beautiful grandchildren. Dan was predeceased by his parents Richard and Mary (Nojaim) Johnson and sister, Beverly. Surviving are his wife of 44 years, the former Dianne Cotter; daughter, Kelly (James) Fanto of Liverpool; son, Brian (Stephanie) of Westvale; grandchildren, Vanessa Fanto and Luke, Isabella and Sophia Johnson; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may call Tuesday, July 15 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, July 16 at 10 a.m. in Holy Family Church. Dan will be laid to rest in Greenlawn Cemetery, Warners. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Dan's memory to one's favorite charity.