Daniel Kelly McCabe

Daniel Kelly McCabe, a man of boundless humor, love, and service, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2026, surrounded by family and friends after a long and adventurous life. Born on January 24, 1942, in Neenah Menasha, Wisconsin, Dan's life was a testament to resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication to those he loved. Dan was the son of Marcella (Marie) and Edward McCabe, both of whom predeceased him, along with his brothers Patrick and Mike, and sister Mary. He is survived by his devoted wife of 40 years, Cynthia Roberts McCabe, his cherished children, son Kean Evans (Siobhan) and daughter Molly Kelly, of whom he was very proud and his beloved grandchildren, Isla, and Saoirse, who brought delight to his life. After graduating from Menasha High School in Wisconsin, Dan moved to California to try out West Coast life and to be near his brothers. He joined the US Army from 1964-1966 and was stationed in Ansbach, Germany. After two years he took a European discharge and he explored the continent with curiosity and adventure during a year-long hitchhiking journey which set the course for lifelong travel. Back in California he pursued higher education with determination, earning his Bachelor's degree in International Marketing from Long Beach State and later in life, a Master of Social Work from Fresno State University. His experience living abroad ignited a lifelong love for Europe. Leading his family on a hike from Coast to Coast in England, was the first of many epic Euro adventures, including walking the Camino towards Santiago with Cynthia, starting first in Porto, Portugal to Finesterre and then again starting in Munich, Germany and walking to Cahors, France in 5 stages. He and Cynthia biked the Canal du Midi and the Canal de la Robine and Vélo Loire in France and at age 80 he cycled the Ring of Kerry in Ireland. These trips were such highlights for him and he was excited to share them with his family. Dan's professional life was as varied and vibrant as his personality. He began his career as a house painter in Los Angeles, eventually transitioning to a role as a Psychiatric Technician at Atascadero State Hospital which thankfully brought him to the Central Coast where he met Cynthia. His dedication to helping others led him back to university to pursue a Master's degree, after which he served the hospital for 20 more years. Retirement for Dan was merely the beginning of another chapter, as he became a Marriage and Family Life Consultant for the US Military, traveling the world to support troops and their families. This job was the highlight of his career as helping young men and women serving our country filled his heart with compassion and pride. Dan's passions extended far beyond his professional life. An ardent lover of soccer, which began while watching his children play, he played the game until the age of 80 with the lovely community of soccer players in Los Osos. At 80 years of age, he discovered a new passion for golf. His weekly games with friends were a source of joy, especially when he won a few dollars for "best hole." A connoisseur of culinary arts, Dan delighted in watching cooking channels, reveling especially in the diverse flavors of Asian and Southeast Asian cuisine, and his famous and overflowing condiment drawer was a testament to his adventurous palate. Known for his offbeat sense of humor, Dan's quick wit and comedic timing were a hallmark of his interactions, leaving both friends and strangers with smiles and laughter. His favorite sayings, "be excellent to each other" and "so...what do you think of me so far?" were reflections of his playful spirit and his genuine interest in connecting with others on a personal and lighthearted level. A celebration of Dan's life will be held on October 16, 2026, at 5:30 PM at The Red Barn, 2180 Palisades Ave., Los Osos, Calif. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Los Osos Youth Soccer Organization, in honor of Dan's love for the game and his community. The McCabe family extends their deepest gratitude to the Golf and Soccer Group, and the friends and caregivers who surrounded Dan with love and support during his final months. Forever changed, forever grateful, we all carry his memory in our hearts and continue to be inspired by his legacy of service and playfulness.