MT. UPTON – Daniel John “Booner” O’Hara passed away peacefully on Sunday, Sept. 30, 2012 with his loving family by his side. He was one of nine children born to Perry A. and Clara E. (Ingalls) O’Hara on Feb. 2, 1949. He lived his entire life in Mt. Upton attending Mt. Upton Central School where he was an outstanding student and athlete graduating in 1967. He attended Mansfield St. College until 1969.
Dan was a man of many talents. Growing up on the family farm he enjoyed farming over the years managing a few before owing his own. He then became head sawyer for R&L Log homes before leaving to work for Del-Ton and Chenango Sanitation, first as a mechanic and then as an office manager. In 1995 he decided to open his own business “All Star Automotive” in Mt. Upton with his son Matthew. He ran that business for fifteen years before his health forced him to retire.
Over the years he was involved in many community activities. He was a volunteer fireman, bar tender, school board member, assistant basketball coach and a charter member of the Mt. Upton Halloweeners. He also sponsored two local dirt track racers, occasionally helping them in the pits at the Afton Racetrack when not watching the races. Dan was a huge sports fan. His favorite teams were the NY Yankees, NY Giants and the Syracuse Orangemen. His favorite NASCAR driver was Bobby Labonte.
If you were a friend of Dan’s you were a friend for life. H was always a jokester putting a smile on everyone’s face. All his family members and close friends each had a special nickname. Dan’s greatest joy in life was his family. He was very involved in his children’s and grandchildren’s activities. As his health failed and he was unable to attend the grandkids events he looked forward to hearing all about them.
Dan is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Kathy (Weis) O’Hara, his children and their families, Tracey Schaefer and children Justine, Brian and Jamie Duvall, Shawn O’Hara and his partner Anthony Fasolo, Granddaughter Cassie O’Hara (Daughter of Matthew) Danette O’Hara and Fiancée, Tshombe Jones with children Jordan and Jamison Luke, Jahlil and Julian Jones, Betsy O’Hara and fiancée Matthew Jenkins, Travis O’Hara and girlfriend Heidi Dopp, Lee Mangiamele with children Owen Mangiamele and Kaden O’Hara. He is also survived by sisters Sally Olsen, Lillian Gilbertsen and husband Alfred, Andrea Walters and husband William, Kelly Hall and husband Clint, sister-in-law, Beverly O’Hara and friend Gerry Faylo, brothers, Andrew O’Hara and wife Debra, Walter O’Hara and wife Janine plus several nieces, nephews and cousins. Dan was predeceased by his parents, brother-in-law Walfred Olsen, brother Wayne (Mike) O’Hara, sister Judith (O’Hara) Albracht and son Matthew O’Hara.
Dan’s family would like to thank Hospice of Chenango County for their wonderful care and compassion during Dan’s final year. We would also like to extend a special thank you to a special lady, Dan’s Hospice nurse Rebecca Skotty. From the moment she walked into the house a very strong bond was formed. She had a way with Dan that goes beyond words. Dan’s calling hours and funeral were arranged by C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel. Donations may be made in Dan’s name to Hospice of Chenango County 21 Hayes St. Norwich, NY 13815.