Daniel L. Maher

Family Tribute:A Fun Dad to Pal Around WithDaniel Maher had a full life, relatives said. But it was never about him.Triple bypass surgery three years ago was a rude awakening for him, said Maher’s wife, Kathy. But the thought of not being around for his family was all the motivation he needed to pay more attention to his health, she said. He started eating better - giving up his anything-chocolate desserts - for one. Her husband also launched into an exercise routine while waging a drawn-out battle to quit smoking. 'He was determined to be around for his family,' Kathy Maher said.A vice president / systems analyst for Marsh & McLennan, Maher treated the people he managed like family, his wife said. A 25-year veteran with Marsh, he was the kind of manager who willingly gave up raises so those under him wouldn’t miss out on one. 'It was never about power with him,' she said.Maher, 50, transferred from Marsh’s Sixth Avenue location in 1999 to offices on the 98th floor of Tower One at the World Trade Center. He was at work on Sept. 11.Maher was born in Flushing to Jeanne, who still lives there, and Raymond Maher. The third of four children - including Raymond, who lives in Vietnam, James of Manhattan and Jeanne Brandofino of Bellmore - he spent every minute he could sharing and taking part in the lives of his own two. Kathy, his wife of 25 years, said her husband was into just about everything their sons, Daniel Jr., 24, and Joseph, 21, were. He trotted them all over the place, including across the country, for their hockey and football games. When they took up hunting, he hunted, too, joining them on deer-hunting trips in the backwoods on the outskirts of their hometown of Hamilton, N.J. And when the boys took up golf, her husband joined in, too, she said. He was awful. 'He got worse the harder he tried, but it didn’t matter to him as long as it meant he could spend time with the boys.'Brandofino recalled her brother’s playful side. Maher captained a 50-foot house boat during a family vacation in Arizona. One of the highlights of the trip was when he took their mother tubing on Lake Powell, Brandofino recalled chuckling. 'He was whipping her around the lake at full throttle.'More than 17 years her senior, her brother always let her tag along, Brandofino said, even on dates. The one outing together that has stayed with her, however, was the first time he let her ride with him to the car wash. Just as the lathered-up car was being hosed down, he rolled the windows down on her. Her brother’s antics aside, Brandofino said, he was her protector, the go-to guy in the family.(c) 2002 Newsday, Inc. Reprinted with permission.www.newsday.com

I'd like the memory of me to be

   a happy one,

I'd like to leave an afterglow of

   smiles when day is done.

I'd like to leave an echo whispering

   softly down the ways,

Of happy times and laughing times

   and bright and sunny days.

I'd like the tears of those who

   grieve, to dry before the sun

Of happy memories that I leave

   behind when day is done.

Daniel Maher had a full life, relatives said. But it was never about him.

Triple bypass surgery three years ago was a rude awakening for him, said Maher’s wife, Kathy. But the thought of not being around for his family was all the motivation he needed to pay more attention to his health, she said. He started eating better - giving up his anything-chocolate desserts - for one. Her husband also launched into an exercise routine while waging a drawn-out battle to quit smoking. 'He was determined to be around for his family,' Kathy Maher said.

A vice president / systems analyst for Marsh & McLennan, Maher treated the people he managed like family, his wife said. A 25-year veteran with Marsh, he was the kind of manager who willingly gave up raises so those under him wouldn’t miss out on one. 'It was never about power with him,' she said.

Maher, 50, transferred from Marsh’s Sixth Avenue location in 1999 to offices on the 98th floor of Tower One at the World Trade Center. He was at work on Sept. 11.

Maher was born in Flushing to Jeanne, who still lives there, and Raymond Maher. The third of four children - including Raymond, who lives in Vietnam, James of Manhattan and Jeanne Brandofino of Bellmore - he spent every minute he could sharing and taking part in the lives of his own two. Kathy, his wife of 25 years, said her husband was into just about everything their sons, Daniel Jr., 24, and Joseph, 21, were.

He trotted them all over the place, including across the country, for their hockey and football games. When they took up hunting, he hunted, too, joining them on deer-hunting trips in the backwoods on the outskirts of their hometown of Hamilton, N.J.

And when the boys took up golf, her husband joined in, too, she said. He was awful. 'He got worse the harder he tried, but it didn’t matter to him as long as it meant he could spend time with the boys.'

Brandofino recalled her brother’s playful side. Maher captained a 50-foot house boat during a family vacation in Arizona. One of the highlights of the trip was when he took their mother tubing on Lake Powell, Brandofino recalled chuckling. 'He was whipping her around the lake at full throttle.'

More than 17 years her senior, her brother always let her tag along, Brandofino said, even on dates. The one outing together that has stayed with her, however, was the first time he let her ride with him to the car wash. Just as the lathered-up car was being hosed down, he rolled the windows down on her. Her brother’s antics aside, Brandofino said, he was her protector, the go-to guy in the family.

(c) 2002 Newsday, Inc. Reprinted with permission.www.newsday.com

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Tributes
I didn't know Mr. Mayer, but after reading the tributes here, I know he is dearly missed even 21 years later. His wife Kathy sounds amazing, and she has a wonderful life filled with children and grandchildren. I admire her strength! I hope the entire family continues to find health and happiness. America will never forget those lost on 9/11/01.
Leslie Honcharik, Friend
Sep 27 2022 3:48PM
All I share with Daniel is a name, he is in my prayers on 9/11. Joe Maher Seattle, USA
Joe Maher, Friend
Sep 21 2021 3:13PM
I worked with Dan when I worked at Marsh from 1987-1993. He was a pleasure to work with. I did not know he had transferred to the WTC location from where we worked together at the Sixth Avenue headquarters location.
Wayne Vaughan, Colleague
Sep 11 2021 5:10PM
Twenty years later…Chris and I just came home from spending the afternoon at ground zero and the 9/11 museum with hundreds of other people who lost someone there 20 years ago. Walking the museum brought the horrors of that day,week and year back to the forefront. Chris and I remembered walking to six different hospitals looking for Dan’s name to show up on a list of survivors. Our shock was that every hospital had the same response that there were few victims that were brought. It was heart breaking to have to tell my Mother and sister in law the window of hope was closing. But when we went back outside to the Pools the warm and respectful vib that was in the air from all those who came to pay their respects to those who were taken gave me a smile and a feeling that Dan was right there with me. Dan my be gone but will forever be in our hearts. Everyone who lost someone should make a trip to the 9/11 museum.
Jim Maher, Family
Sep 11 2021 3:05AM
I remember Dan on this 20th anniversary and on each and every year!
Paul Froment, Colleague
Sep 12 2021 2:45PM
9/11 is still in everyones hearts.. And everytime I think about it, I think of my time at ground zero. I always have a drink in honor of the people that died.. and i always think of how I felt when i read the name Daniel L Maher Tabhair aire dhuit féin
Damien Francis James Maher, Friend
Sep 11 2012 3:26PM
All I share with Daniel is a name, he is in my prayers on 9/11 Peter Maher London, U.k.
Peter Maher, Friend
Sep 11 2011 9:33AM
Aloha, I worked at Marsh in the Hawaii office for 14 years and was there on 9/11/01. Although I never met Dan, we emailed occasionally for various work things--reports and the like. He was a nice man and always very helpful--someone I was privileged to work with. I have thought of him and his family since that fateful day. I cannot imagine the feeling of loss to his family and friends. On this eve before the 10th anniversary, I found myself thinking of him again and praying he has found peace and his family has found comfort.
Denys Kazama, Colleague
Sep 11 2011 12:58AM
Ten years ago today we lost you..our street has never been the same since..Even though I was only 11 when you were taken, I can still remember you and my dad standing outside talking for who knows how long (don't worry, kathy took over for you). You're always in my thoughts and prayers..you were always such a great neighbor and you're missed more than you can imagine. <3
Melissa Wieger, Friend
Sep 11 2011 12:33AM
Thank you so much Damien, as Dan's wife I would like you to know how much my family and I really appreciate your thoughts and very kind words.
kathy maher, Family
Sep 4 2011 11:38PM
First of all I would like to apologies.. I never knew Daniel but I would like to add a little story Growing up in Dublin I had always wanted to go to New York; and went to bed as a kid with stories from my da about his granddad having to move to America from Ireland. When 9/11 happened I was gutted and vowed to go to New York the following year. When i was there I walked to Ground zero and was reading the plaques that was on the fencing when i came on the name Daniel L Maher I looked at it for ages as i never noticed it before when briefly looking at the names in the paper.. I remember thinking about what my dad told me and thought 'he could be related to me' and said a pray for him and his family With the 10th anniversary coming up i remembered his name and thought i would google it and found this. So with the anniversary coming up i send you my love and prays Damien Francis James Maher Dublin, Ireland
Damien Francis James maher, Friend
Aug 27 2011 5:27PM
happy 60th - we miss you every day - i know you're celebrating up there...we love you! xxoo
Renee, Family
Aug 19 2011 10:40AM
we miss you putz...and have not forgotten a single minute of how you made us smile so brightly. i tell austin all about his grandpa and how much his dad is like you. i already see you in austin and those are the moments that are magical, that i treasure. having austin is like having a gift from you - i know you're up there smiling down on us...and laughing when your newest grandson does. we love you!!
Renee, Family
Sep 9 2010 9:52AM
Wow, another grandson. He is perfect and adorable and another gift from heaven. He really looks like a Maher. Joe is loving every minute of being a dad and I know he is trying to raise Austin the way he was raised. They are going to be amazing parents and I am so proud. When I hold him I think of you and what you would be doing with him. How much I wish that you could be there loving him and teaching him how to call his father a putz. I promise I will make sure he knows all about his grandpa... Still love you more
Kathy, Family
Jun 23 2010 12:29AM
Yesterday I rediscovered the silver WTC bracelet in a random box of photos. I am wearing it now and thinking of Mr. Maher and his family. Sincerely, Tori
Tori, Friend
Jun 8 2010 9:34AM
Great news for a horrible weekend...Your baby is having a baby....Joe and Renee are so excited and so are the rest of us. They will make great parents. I can't wait. So much has happened in the last 8 years. I am so sorry you have not been here with us to share in the joy. Love you, miss you
Kathy Maher, Family
Sep 14 2009 12:04AM
We're married!! What a beautiful day, filled with so many smiles and laughs...I felt your presence and was grateful for that. We celebrated (an amazing celebration!) the way you would have wanted us to and Joe and I are so blessed...so happy. We are so excited to start our lives as husband and wife and know that all of your wisdom will always guide us (you were so good for that). I know you'll always watch over us...you're presence will always be there to strengthen the amazing love that we already have. Thank you for all that you still do as you shine down on us...I love you!! ~your new daughter-in-law!!! xoxo
Renee Maher, Family
Jul 30 2009 4:00PM
23 days to for Joe's wedding. I am so happy for him, but so sad that you will not be here for this. I hope that I can fill your shoes for Joe on his day, although very large shoes to fill. God knows that no one will ever be able to dance the way that you did at Dan's. We are rallying around Joe and trying very hard to fill in the gaps for you. It will be a beautiful day and I know we will all feel your love. Joe deserves only the best, he has been my strength through all of this. Now it is time for me to let him go and really live his life. This is so hard, because this is the end of our relationship as it was. Hard to let our baby go. I hope he and Renee have the love and relationship that we did. Wish you were here. love you more
Kathy, Family
Jun 5 2009 8:17PM
Hey Babe, Well our baby is getting married. Joe and Renee got engaged and a wonderful June wedding is planned. They are so happy, which makes all of us happy. I know you have guided him through all of this. I also know that you will be there to help us celebrate. I promise we will dance and party the way you would want us to. I miss you so much. So much has happened in these last 7 years. We have all struggled through some tough times, but have always picked ourselves up, supported each other, laughed and cried and managed to move forward, as you would want. The boys are doing good and are happy in their lives. Danny and Jace are such precious gifts that bring such joy to all of us. Joe and Renee will be next. Still love you more...always and forever
Kathy Maher, Family
Dec 13 2008 10:51PM
Hi Dad, Dan and I were talking about Renee and Joe's upcoming wedding, and were prompted to watch our own wedding video. The FIRST time together since 9/11. We had such a great time watching it. Laughing, crying, 'oh my Godding', and remembering you. It was so great to see, and I just had to write. So much has happened, but no need to write about that, I know you know all about our life- we feel your presence all the time! Dan was just reading what I was writing (always looking over me :)), and told me to tell everyone who reads this about 'your drunken dancing' hahaha! Hey, at least we had fun, right?! Anyway, we know you will be dancing at Joe and Renee's wedding. Keep watching over us. We love you very much...
Lisa Maher, Family
Nov 16 2008 12:03AM
Uncle Dan, I still find it hard to believe that you're gone. I miss you so much. I think about you all the time. You are always on my mind, in my heart and prayers. I'm so sorry. I realy am. I miss you. I love you.
AnneMarie Ballato, Family
Sep 11 2008 6:22PM
Well Babe - Tomorrow will be 7 years. I could never imagine 1 day without you and here it is 7 years. I will write tonight, to tell you how much I love you, How much I miss you, How much I need you. The pain is still so fresh. Tomorrow is such a painfull day as is each day. Somehow we all get through it for each other. I will spend tomorrow in the park with Danny and Jace.They always make me smile and laugh. I see so much of you in both of them and I cherish every minute I have with them. I promise they will know all about you. Good night my love Love you more.
Kathy, Family
Sep 10 2008 10:18PM
Hi!! I just like to say Danny and I were friends during our teenage years!He and I shared our first job together at Waldbaums!We had to get working papers! I believe the year was 1967!! My first weekend trip to Montauk was with Danny myself and three others! Danny's mom was also a teacher at my elementary school although Danny was not a student there!Him and I spent tons of hours hanging out at Victory Park! Mostly playing handball and basketball! 2-3 years we were close friends! As things go we pretty much lost track of each other about a year after H.S. The thing I really remember the most was all the laughing and joking we did with our little group of friends! I never had the pleasure of meeting Danny's wife or kids!! I would just like them to know what a great kid he was back in that time period!! I have never forgotten the friendship we shared and my life is richer for it!!I am thankful for the time we spent !! Danny was a breadth of fresh air during a tough era! His smile and laugh was so contagious any one who knew him can never forget the sound!!! James Gretschel
James Gretschel, Friend
Jul 12 2008 11:43PM
Dear Cousin Danny, I am so happy to have found your memorial page and even happier to see Kathy's news of a new grandson for you. You are in our thoughts regularly and will never fade from there. My Dad (your cousin George) sure does miss you each and every day. He talks of his childhood memories of you all the time. You are a hero; one who will be held in all of our hearts forever. Love, Beth (Lambert) Wiener
Beth Lambert Wiener, Family
Apr 8 2008 5:50PM
you will never be forgotten no one will forget all the times we shared together that no on will regret i love you uncle dan.
shianne, Family
Jan 2 2008 12:24PM
Hey Babe, Your second grandson has joined the family. Jace Dylan, he is so precious and we are so blessed to have him in our lives. You would be so proud of ,he is doing an amazing job being Daddy. Joe is also doing amazing, no suprise there. I love how much he reminds me of you. He has really tried so hard to step into your footsteps for us. You did an amazing job raising these boys. I am so proud of both of them. I know I have you to thank for that. Still love you more.
Kathy, Family
Jun 26 2007 1:43PM
To the family of Daniel L. Maher Just yesterday I learned his name. We live in Bucks County, PA and yesterday was the dedication of the 9/11 memorial, Garden of Reflection, for the 17 people who died that day. All 17 lived in Bucks County. It is a beautiful memorial built for the heroes of that day. Besides the names of the 17 people from our area etched in glass panels are the names of all who died that day. While reading the names we came across Daniel L. Maher's name. I just want you to know that because our last name is also Maher and my grandson's name is Daniel I was so touched by this coincidence that I placed a red carnation by Daniel L. Maher's name and said a prayer. Peace be with him and your family. I hope someday that you will be able to come to the Garden of Reflection to see its beauty and feel its peace. God bless you and God Bless America Mrs. Wm. J. Maher Jr. - mother of Spc. Wm. J. Maher III KIA 7/28/03 Baghdad, Iraq
Adeline M. Maher, Friend
Oct 1 2006 10:14AM
Uncle Dan, Till' this day I am sooooo sorry I never found you that day. I looked for you, I never stopped the whole time! I am soooo sorry! I love you! Please forgive me.
AnneMarie, Family
Aug 15 2006 1:58PM
hi, daniel I´m fom argentina, my mother is gloria maher her grandfather were from ¨irlanda¨ I like know of you
lorena mariel barragan maher, Friend
Aug 3 2006 4:32PM
Here we are 4 years later, so much has happened. Your grandson was born, Joe graduated twice, Jeanne had the triplets and yet the pain has not gone away. There is such a hole that can not be filled. I miss your laughter, your strength, your love and oh for sure your infamous wisdom. It is for you and the boys that I go on. They are your legacy and I am here to make sure they honor it. I love you more....forever and always. Kathy
Kathy, Family
Sep 4 2005 9:49PM
Dan you and your family are always in my thoughts and prayers. You will never be forgotten. You are missed. Jenny
Jenny Rosa, Friend
Sep 2 2005 4:35PM
I was thinking of you today, praying and thinking some more. Your son finished his masters degree today. What an accomplishment and he did it with such drive and pride, I knew it came from your spirit. He amazes me every day and his unwavering strength is a direct reflection of your character and all that you instilled in him. We move forward together, knowing that you are always watching over and guiding us through this maze of life. I know that because of you, Joe is an amazing person and has everything he needs to be successful in so many ways. I needed to take the time to thank you. He wouldn't be who he is and we wouldn't be here, if it wasn't for your uncanny ability to be exactly who you are. I hope you know that that is Joe, exactly you. We miss you and love you so very, very much each and every single day... xoxo Renee p.s. Happy Birthday :)
Renee, Family
Aug 3 2005 11:15PM
He is finally here babe.... Daniel Gregory Maher Another piece of you to love. Dan is natural at this, of course he had the best teacher. Love you more. Kathy
Kathy, Family
Apr 12 2005 3:51PM
I would like to say that I am deeply sorry for your loss and my prayers are with all of you, family and friends. The pain of losing a loved one will never go away, but with memories and knowing that he is watching over you can help ease the pain. I came acroos this page because I lost my little cousin Daniel R. Maher 19 years old in a car accident. We actually had the same tribute (I would like the memory of me to be a happy one....) on his funeral card. I was hoping you may be able to give me info on how to make a website for him. Again, I am deeply sorry for your loss, I cannot say I know how you feel, but I can say I know it is very hard to deal with a tragic and sudden loved ones death. May the memories of Daniel L. Maher be cherised and never forgotten. Bless you all! Sincerely, Crystal
Crystal, Friend
Feb 2 2005 3:12PM
Pop, Your gonna be a grandfather (and me an uncle)......I couldn't be happier!
Joe, Family
Nov 2 2004 12:23PM
Another Christmas and New Year without you.....Still totaly in love with you. Still miss you more than one can imagine. I don't understand how the birds still sing, the leaves still turn, the snow still falls. Love you more
Kathy, Family
Jan 2 2004 5:15PM
'For a moment all the world was right...How could I have known that you'd ever say goodbye. And now I'm glad I didn't know The way it all would end, the way it all would go. Our lives are better left to chance...I could have missed the pain But I'd of had to miss the dance' -Garth Brooks, The Dance The words of this song reminded me of you. You were about making the most of this 'dance' through life and I want you to know we're making the most of it. I love you putz and I'll miss you forever... Renee
Renee Viola, Friend
Nov 3 2003 12:37PM
He had kind eyes... Though I really didn't know him very well at all, I remember thinking that. And, it was proven in his family. I was honestly just a friend of a friend of Mr. Maher's youngest son, Joe. However, I have to say that his family made a great impression on me and memories of them still remain in my heart to this day. Mr. Maher was the best kind of father. He raised two great men; they were always a pleasure to be around. And, the Maher family were the best kind of family. You could hear it, see it, and even smell it in their home. You felt welcomed right there at the front porch. The couple of times I had the pleasure of being there stick out in my mind all of the time. I remember, especially, a greeting card sitting on a table, maybe for an anniversary, that talked about how Mr. and Mrs. Maher were born for each other. The loving relationship he and his wife had was so sweet to witness and almost... inspiring. I wanted to say, it doesn't feel like two years. I wanted to say that my heart has and always will go out to Mrs. Maher, Joe, and Dan, and I think about them all almost every day. I wanted to say that even from a distance people care, and people pray, and people hope for you three, still. I wanted to say that I cried hard today, thinking of your loss. I wanted to say I smiled with thoughts of you guys. I wanted to say you're in my thoughts, and always will be. all my wishes for Joe, his mom, his brother, and friends and family. :-* xoxoxo Jennifer Caraballo
Jennifer Caraballo, Friend
Sep 11 2003 8:06PM
Cover note: I am not a friend, but wanted to make a comment. I just stumbled on this site and read through the messages. Like the rest of the world, I had followed the tragic events of 9/11 but today, so many months after the event, I had tears in my eyes just reading through these messages. I did not know any of the victims or their relatives / friends, but share their pain. The courage of the families who have lost so much is truly remarkable. Keep your chin up and god bless.
Sunil Inamdar, Friend
Jul 3 2003 10:28AM
To Kathy and Dan's family: I knew Dan in 1977 & 1978 when he was quite young. I always remembered him as a quiet unasumming gentleman. Such a nice person who was always willing to help and accomplish all that we had to do. I am so sorry that he is not with us any longer, but we are all better for having know him. A wonderful person professionally and personally. Richard Martino
Richard Martino, Colleague
Aug 27 2002 1:54PM
Dan - I write to you all the time, but this one has been the hardest....There are no words to express how much I miss you. I miss your love, your compassion,humor,strength,your unconditional love. I need to Thank you for all you have given us and taught us. I had the most wonderful 28 years with you. The boys and I are trying so hard to get through this for you. We know that is the only way you will be at peace, so we are giving it our best. We love and miss you so much, but with you strength, we will somehow make it. I love you more.....Kathy
Kathy Maher, Family
Jul 31 2002 11:44AM
Dan you're missed so much by so many. I'm so glad that Kathy and Dan found each other. No two people were better together. As far back as I can remember, Dan was always happy. Happy with his wife, happy with his children. It was always right there on his face for everyone to see. Such an easy going and loving guy. You'll always be missed Dan, but never forgotten.
Susan Minervini, Friend
Jul 15 2002 9:28PM
Dan was a pleasure to know, he was so easy to talk to and so understanding. When I needed his help he was there and I will never forget that. My prayers are with his family...May you rest in Peace.
Kathy Reyes, Colleague
Jun 11 2002 10:44AM
Like Elizabeth I also had the pleasure of working with Dan from 1984-1988. I remember every day at 3pm we get coffee. I can still hear his laugh when I would ask if he was going for the coffee and he would say 'no but you are'. To his family you are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless You.
Diane Hussey, Colleague
May 9 2002 1:53PM
I was fortunate enough to have Dan as one of my first bosses way back in 1984-1985. He was very easy going but also direct. One of his words of wisdom to me that I carry with me till this day is 'Just do it!'. Although I have lost touch with my former colleagues I will never forget them. My heart goes out to his family and friends. God bless them.
Elizabeth Wiacek Tota, Colleague
Apr 15 2002 3:35PM
Dan was a decent man in all aspects of life.He was great teacher who cherished his staff as equals.He was a confidant who provided insight to me on many issues and used his experience at Marsh to solve day to day problems.We will miss his counsel, support and positive outlook on life.Fitzgerald is quoted in the Great Gatsby, 'in life decencies are not passed out equally'.Dan surely got his share and used them in a humanitarian manner
Bruce L. Pepchinski, Friend
Apr 4 2002 8:27AM