Obituary: Hon. Daniel W. O’Grady, of Bethel, Passed Away at 67; View Schedule of Services for March 30

Report by Paula Antolini, March 29, 2022, 2:10PM EDT

OBITUARY

Daniel W. O’Grady

April 01, 1954 – March 27, 2022

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Hon. Daniel W. O’Grady on March 27, 2022, at the age of 67 after a courageous two-year battle with lymphoma. Dan passed away peacefully at home with his loving family at his side.

Daniel was born April 1, 1954, to the late Richard and Marjorie O’Grady. He was a lifelong Connecticut resident, growing up in Norwalk and then residing in Bethel since 1977. Dan was a graduate of Norwalk High School (1972), Central Connecticut State University (BS, 1976), the University of Connecticut (MBA, 1979), and Quinnipiac University (JD, 1985).

Dan was a hard-working and determined individual with a strong drive to learn and experience all that life had to offer. He developed an interest in law while working at Air Express International and followed that passion to complete law school, open a small legal practice in Bethel, and serve as probate judge for the Northern Fairfield County Probate Court for 25 years. His legal career spanned 30 years in which he helped countless individuals through probate, family, and civil matters.

Dan wore many hats apart from his role as probate judge. He also served as treasurer and attorney for the Town of Bethel, and was a member of the Newtown Lions Club board of directors, among many others.

However, Dan’s most cherished roles were as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. In 1976, he married his high school sweetheart, Elise (Yedlin) O’Grady, with whom he recently celebrated 45 years of marriage. Dan loved spending time with family and friends. He was an enthusiastic Yankee and Ranger fan, and attended games regularly. Dan also loved being outdoors and was an avid golfer and longtime member of Newtown Country Club. He loved to travel, was known for planning amazing trips near and far, and was always on the search for local gems off the beaten path.

Dan is predeceased by his parents, Richard and Marjorie O’Grady, and by his sister, Jean Stockwell-O’Grady and her husband Robert. He will be forever missed by his beloved wife, Elise, his three sons and daughters-in-law – Justin and Melissa, Andrew and Lauren, and Brendan and Kaitlyn – his two grandchildren, Michael and James, and his faithful canine companion, Mabel. He is also survived by his two brothers, Richard O’Grady Jr. and wife Brenda, and Christopher O’Grady and wife Lisa. He will also be missed by his many nieces and nephews.

In sum, Dan leaves behind a legacy of compassion, understanding, and love for those that crossed paths with him.

The family is grateful for all of the love and support they received during this difficult time. They are especially thankful for the care provided by Dr. Vincent Rella, Deanna Ballard, APRN, the dedicated nurses and staff at Danbury Hospital and Regional Hospice.

Visitation hours will take place Wednesday, March 30 from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Ave., Norwalk, CT 06851. Following the visitation, there will be a brief service from 7:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Praxair Cancer Center at Danbury Hospital, Regional Hospice, or to a charity of one’s choosing.

*****

Schedule of Services

Visitation

Collins Funeral Home

  •  Wednesday, March 30, 2022
  •  4:00 PM – 7:30 PM
  •  Email Details
  •  92 East Ave.
     Norwalk, Connecticut 06851

Directions 

Funeral Service

Collins Funeral Home

  •  Wednesday, March 30, 2022
  •  7:30 PM
  •  Email Details
  •  92 East Ave.
     Norwalk, Connecticut 06851