A family-oriented man who lead by example and quiet strength
Born in Boston on August 26, 1929, Daniel is one of five children of the late Daniel D. and Theresa (Doherty) Kelleher, Sr. He grew up in Brookline, graduating from Brookline High School, where he played football, and ran track. He also ran the Boston Marathon while he was a senior.
After high school, Daniel enlisted in the United States Army Signal Corps. He served in Japan during the Korean War. His time in Japan made him take an interest in other cultures, and it was something that stayed with him his whole life. After his honorable discharge, he attended Bentley College on the G.I. Bill, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.
After college, He took on a job as an auditor for the Internal Revenue Service. While working there, he met Susan Svarson. They were later married in 1965.
The family first lived in Sommerville before settling in Melrose to raise their young family. After his time at the IRS, Daniel took on the role of project manager for the Department of Housing and Urban Development. He enjoyed his work there and made numerous life-long friends.
Daniel loved his family. He was exceptionally active in their lives, and was an excellent husband, father, and role model. He led by example, and a quiet strength. Personable and generous, he was always looking out for others, and would give anyone the shirt off his back if they needed help.
A lover of music, and possessing an eclectic taste, Daniel enjoyed anything from Big Band, Jazz, Show Tunes, Classical, and everything in between. His love of foreign films was also strong and carried over to his grandchildren, whom he loved talking to about different films they enjoyed.
A curious mind, Daniel had numerous books, newspapers, and periodicals in rotation at any one time. When his children were younger, they always went on Sunday family road trips. These adventures usually involved trips to important places in the area as he felt it was important for his family to know the history of the area where they lived. He also used these trips to teach his children how to navigate.
Daniel was a fan of the Boston sports teams; he enjoyed taking the family to three to four Red Sox games every year. They also enjoyed spending time on The Cape, where he enjoyed time with family and swimming and snorkeling. Gardening was another favorite where he and his beloved Susan teamed up to take care of the flowers, plants, and yard.
Daniel’s quiet, calm, and loving nature will be missed by all who loved him.
Daniel was the beloved husband of the late Susan (Svarson) Kelleher with whom he shared 44 years of marriage. Devoted father to Kathryn Luzader and her husband, Michael, of Wallingford, VT; and James D. Kelleher and his wife, Justine, of Maynard. Dear brother of Phyllis MacIntyre and her late husband, Donald, of S. Yarmouth; the late Robert Kelleher and his late wife, Gretchen; Frank Kelleher and Billy Kelleher. Cherished grandfather of Adam and Ben Luzader. Loving uncle of Carla Dunn and the late Robert Kelleher, Jr.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Tuesday, September 28 from 9-11 a.m., and for his funeral service celebrated at 11 a.m. Masks are kindly requested.
Gifts in Daniel’s memory may be made to The Home for Little Wanderers, Attn: Development, 10 Guest St. Boston, MA. 02135.
For online tribute please visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
