Daniel "Danny" McNamara, 72, of Ashland, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at home on March 15, 2026. Danny had survived leukemia years ago, but in the end he succumbed after a courageous battle with bladder cancer.

Born in Boston, Danny was the beloved son of the late Paul McNamara and Dorothy DeAngelis. From his childhood through the end of his life, Danny displayed an upbeat spirit that was jovial, easygoing, and just mischievous enough to keep everyone smiling while on their toes. He had a genuine way with people and will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and the warmth he shared with all who knew him.

Danny proudly served his community as a school bus driver for the Town of Framingham and, for the past 12 years, with Michael J. Connolly Transportation, a career he deeply enjoyed. He loved greeting the students each day and took pride in being a steady, friendly presence in their lives.

Danny was happiest outdoors and surrounded by the people he loved. He had a lifelong passion for tinkering in the backyard and repairing just about anything that needed fixing. Whether it was a broken appliance, a stubborn engine, or a household project, Danny was always ready for a challenge, rolling up his sleeves and figuring it out.

He also loved camping and spending time by the ocean, especially on the beaches of Aruba, where he could often be found sitting peacefully by the shoreline with his feet in the sun, surf, and sand.

Danny's famous tradition of baking Irish soda bread and delivering it to his family will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who were lucky enough to enjoy it.

Above all, Danny treasured time with his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Regina (Foynes) McNamara, and his loving children:

Keith McNamara and his wife Maura;

Cassandra Severance;

Lea Schatzlein and her husband Erich;

Kayla Hatch and her husband Will;

and Lindsey McNamara.

Danny was a proud and devoted "Bumpa" to Thomas "TJ", Brandon, Elizabeth, Mallory, Maeve, Warren, Magnolia, and Lincoln. and recently a great-grandfather to Giovani. He was predeceased by his grandson Anthony, who held a special place in his heart.

He is also survived by his siblings: Mary Salvi and her husband Kevin; Kevin McNamara and his wife Karen; Joseph McNamara and his wife Doris; Kathleen McNamara; Lori Cattani and her husband Frank; and Chrissie Faini and her husband Gene. He was predeceased by his sister, Denise Fitzgerald.

Danny also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews.

Danny will be remembered for his kind heart, lively personality, and the uplifting presence he brought everywhere he went. His generous spirit will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Danny's legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the love he shared so freely.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday March 24th at 10:30am in St. Cecilia's Church, 54 Esty St. Ashland, MA with urn burial to follow in Wildwood Cemetery in Ashland.  Visiting hours will be held Monday from 4:00-7:00 PM in the Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main St. Ashland, MA.