Harbaugh, Daniel T.
Age 64, Fortified with the Sacrament of Holy Mother Church on Sunday, August 11, 2024.
With a heart as grand as the sky and a smile that could light up the darkest day, Dan Harbaugh leaves behind a legacy rich in love and gratitude. Dan was the beloved husband of Kelly Harbaugh (nee Bahan) and the proud, loving father of Libby & Jack Harbaugh. He was the son of the late Stephen & Eileen Harbaugh and the brother of Steve (Glenda), Pat Coppinger, Mark and the late Kathy Fitzgerald. Dan was a brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and friend to so many.
Dan was the proudest graduate of St John Vianney High School, requiring Jack and Libby to salute anytime we passed the school on the highway and became a Hall of Fame member in 2023. He served on the PAL Board, was named “Man of the Year” by the Men’s Group Against Cancer and “Man of the Year” by the Italian Open Charities. He was a proud parishioner of St Raphael the Archangel, most especially the Men’s Club.
Dan spent his 40 year career helping to support and make life better for kids and families through Big Brothers, Big Sisters and his pride and joy for over 30 years, the Ronald McDonald House. He called his job the “easiest in the world” because of the wonderful colleagues, volunteers and friends that made his work so much more than a job.
Dan was always quick to let anyone know he had the greatest life, job and army of friends anyone could ever have and he knew he got to witness all the good in life. He considered himself George Bailey, “the richest man in town,” and we agree that he certainly was.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his honor to the Dan Harbaugh Endowment | Ronald McDonald House Charities of St. Louis (rmhcstl.org) or St John Vianney High School .
SERVICES: We invite you to join us in celebrating Dan’s amazing life at St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church on Friday, August 16 at 10AM. Burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery.
I’ve only met Dan a few times through RMHC events, but he was always one of the nicest, most welcoming and joyful people in the room. Your family is in my prayers.
We are so sorry to learn of the passing of a truly good and kind man. Our condolences to his family and colleagues at Ronald McDonald’s.
He was always so welcoming and generous.
May God bless him and all of us he spent a lifetime serving.
Dan,
I love you sooooo much! You personified passionate leadership. Thank you for the many conversations at IMO’s on Hampton, our go-to place. It was the privilege of a lifetime to work with your Leadership and Management Teams. Thank you for inviting me into the room. You did truly noble and purposeful work!!! I’m sure you are spreading smiles in heaven right now.
My favorite Harbaugh quote is, “It doesn’t suck to be Dan Harbaugh.” Dan impacted my life as much as anyone on this planet. We had so many great times together. I’ve cried a million tears during his sickness and the last 36 hours since his passing. I will miss him every day, but I will also strive to be like him and do the things that I know he would want me to do. I look forward to celebrating his life and his legacy. Words cannot express how wonderful he was. I look forward to seeing him again some day in heaven.
Dan devoted much of his life in helping people. Besides his important role at Ronald McDonald House, he was a prominent board member of the Police Athletic League. He was friends with so many and you won’t find even one negative word in the same sentence as Dan Harbough. A true STL icon who will be dealry missed.
Our deepest sympathies to Kelly and the entire Harbaugh family. It is truly a gigantic loss for all of us.
Dan was kind, gracious, hard working and dedicated to RHMC; and he was hilarious. He was always the first one to reach out and give you a hug and he always spoke to you like you were the only person in the room
He had an incredible gift of remembering absolutely everyone he ever met and his tireless dedication to his family, friends and RHMC will leave a big hole in all our hearts.
Cheers and much love to the richest man in STL.
Have known Dan for more than 10 years. He was always positive and extremely committed to the causes he was associated. Ronald McDonald House of St. Louis, is just one of the many successes that contribute to Dan’s legacy!
My deepest sympathies to Dan’s family and everyone he served through his amazing work. May he rest he heavenly peace as he made this world a better place.
I am honored to call Dan my friend. Of course, I was only 1 of 1,000. But he gave each individual the attention that you were the only one. His impact on the lives of others will be his legacy as his kindness can live on through each individual. Peace to Kelly, Libby, and Jack. The support they gave to him over the years he spent reaching out to others is admirable. Peace to those at RMHC St. Louis.
Though we lost touch when I moved away 6 years ago, it was my utmost pleasure to work alongside Dan for several years at RMHC St. Louis. He was a heck of a man and I am so sorry to hear this.
Dearest Kelly, Libby and Jack,
My heartfelt condolences to each of you. Dan’s beautiful smile always made you feel special. Over thirty years ago he became a huge partner in the lives of Michael, Shawn and myself through Big Brothers and Big Sisters. What a privilege to have him join our earthly journey. Dan was a true angel in our midst. Keeping all in my prayers.
We will miss you my PAL Friend and fellow Griffin!
Enjoy Heaven!😇
Every time I had a chance encounter with Dan he made time to say hello and the time I spent as a volunteer cooking at the West County House was always brought up. He never forgot and I will never forget his kindness.
Oh my gosh, what a sweet and thoughtful man. I remember walking out of church at my mom’s funeral and looking up and seeing Dans smiling face, he touched my heart with his caring kindness. He was such a nice man, and what a Legacy he leaves behind. His family can be extremely proud. Rest in Peace Dan. Thank you for being there.
RIP YOU GIANT OF A MAN
YOU WERE VERY LOVED AND RESPECTED,
GINO LAMARTINA
Dan was a remarkable person whose warmth and engaging spirit left a lasting impact on everyone he met. Though I didn’t know him well, his presence was unforgettable — a true force of life that inspired those around him to strive for better. His legacy of kindness and inspiration will live on in the hearts of many.
Kelly, Libby, and Jack – please accept our warmest condolences and healing prayers. We enjoyed working with Dan for 30+ years and considered him a good friend, a strong advisor, and a powerful advocate. He’ll be missed.
So sorry to hear of the news on Dan. The family and Dan will be in our prayers. Will miss seeing Dan at all the Cardinals games as well. Remember Dan back with the Big Brothers as well. Loosing a great guy. Jeff
A great man- a true “human litmus” test, that is, if you ever would hear a negative word about Dan from a person (and I NEVER did!), you knew you were talking to an unsavory individual. The most positive person I ever knew-he left his mark on the world in many endeavors, and will be missed-should have had a lot longer to continue to improve the world
Dan will be sorely missed by not only his family ; but all his friends , fellow Enterprise Bank & Trust Board members , the St. Louis community & the countless families the Ronald McDonald House served over the many years he was there.
🙏
So very sorry to hear. Dan and Kelly purchased my parents’ home back in 2005 after my mom suffered a stroke and I was in the difficult process of moving my parents to Atlanta. Dan and Kelly were so supportive and understanding throughout that transition. We stayed in touch the past 20 years; he sent me a handwritten note every year thanking me for the contribution to the Ronald McDonald House. We talked about getting together – I sure wish that I would have made the time to do it. A great guy who will be sorely missed by so many.
I work at WWT and I worked with Dan for 25+ years. Dan was a bright light and he was always trying to help others. He will truly be missed. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
A great gentleman that treaded everyone like they were his best friend,.
May His Memory Be Eternal !!
A true gentleman that treated everyone he met like they were his best friend
May His Memory Be Eternal !
I consider it an honor to have known Dan.
He was a giant of a man and will be greatly missed
Heartbroken to lose such an amazing RMHC colleague and friend. Dan was a one of a kind and lit up any room with his amazing energy. Prayers to his family, friends, and his RMHC family too where his leadership and contributions were legendary. ❤️
Cindy and I have been so blessed to have Dan in our lives even though we have only known him for a few years. His attitude towards helping others and his engagement in these endeavors were so special . He had a magnetic personality and he will be sorely missed.
Ray and Cindy Swaback
A total class act. We were so proud to induct Dan into Vianney’s HOF last year. I was battling leukemia at the time of his induction and he regularly kept in contact with me, checking on my progress. He leaves a huge void.
Dan was a one of a kind. Nobody cared or worked harder for a cause than Dan. He saw his dream come true with the new house and without him it never would have happened. Dan has made an impact on so many families through RMHC. He will be missed by so many. Condolences to Kelly Libby and Jack.
Dan was a great friend. Over the years getting to know him through Ronald McDonald House Charity here in St. Louis to our time together serving with Mike Walsh and the Eagle Bank and Trust shareholders. Dan brought great wisdom, insight and passion to all he did.
God Speed Dan.
Scott Engelbrecht
We are truly blessed to have known Dan, through many years of Cards games, chauffeuring to the basketball games, football tailgates and CBG/RMH events. The world has lost a truly bright and giving light! Rest in peace Dan. Love and prayers to Kelly and your family.
Kelly, Libby and Jack, my condolences to each of you. You had an amazing husband and dad that loved you all so much.
I had the honor of working with Dan on the RMD Golf Tournament for many years.
He loved what he did and all the people that surrounded him at RMD house. We were the “lucky” ones.l to know and work beside him. He touched so many people and did it with such a beautiful heart and smile. He will be missed by any. Dan truly left an amazing legacy for all.
MaryAnn Broemmelsick
Dan had a line, “it doesn’t suck to be Dan Harbaugh!” Well it sucks to lose a guy whose smile was his billboard. It told you everything you needed to know about one of the most generous, humble, love filled, warm and welcoming guys I knew. You couldn’t have lunch, a drink or dinner with him because you were constantly interrupted, he had to say hi, or someone would come to table. He loved it. It’s rare when someone is doing what they were meant to do, Dan was meant to change people lives and he did it everyday with a zest. My prayers are with Kelly, their children, family and the stadium full of friends he created. I am grateful he was my friend and I will miss him.
An irreplaceable asset to the Saint Louis not for profit community. Dan set the standard for all to emulate. Always with a huge smile, a wecoming hug and you were immediatrly charmed by this force. The world loved Dan and Dan loved it back. If you met him, you were his friend for life. The world became a lesser place Sunday when God told Dan, “Thanks son, come on home!”
Sympathy and prayers to Dan’s family. My family has known Dan since the 1970’s – 80’s when he played ball for Santa Maria, K of C.. Dan was one of the nicest guys. I am sure everyone will miss him.
So sorry to hear Dan has passed away — bet he’s still flashing that great big smile of his up in Heaven!
I met Dan when he worked tirelessly at Big Brothers Big Sisters. We worked on the Bowl-a-thon committee together for years. He always took the time to chat, have a laugh, and give great advice and encouragement! Lots of good memories working with Dan — and playing on BBBS’s Big-Little float trips, various holiday events, and more.
Loved by all who knew him, the world — and more specifically this community (esp kids!) was a better place because of Dan. May he rest in peace and may his family find some comfort in knowing just how much he achieved in and meant to the St Louis Metro community and all those who knew him.
Dan was a class act who lived his faith by his actions. He always wanted to make things better for others. His smile would light up a room. And oh what a proud father he was for Jack and Libby. Dan has certainly left a lasting legacy in the St Louis community and beyond.
My husbands dear friend and always a light and a joy to be near! Heaven is rejoicing and earth is less sweeter since he left us. May he rest in the arms of Jesus whom I know is saying “Well done, my good and faithful servant, Well done. “ if we could all be more like Dan…🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
My sincere condolences.
He was the kindest most loyal and giving man I have ever met as a young college student that wanted a job. Dan was was always a kind hardworking giving person his whole life, anyone that knew him couldn’t help but love the man just for himself. He will be missed by everyone he touched in life, Kelly. There is a special place in heaven for a person like him. I will miss him deeply.
Prayers for comfort to the Harbaugh Family and our condolences. I met Dan through my husband Tom Baldesi . Tom introduced me to Dan back in 1989. The guys played soccer together for many years on the Sybergs team. Dan always talked about his love and passion working with kids. I remember when he left Big Brothers and Big Sisters to move to The Ronald McDonald Foundation it was difficult he said, but it felt right.
I called Dan to see if he has someone that could come out to Selvidge Middle School to talk about the Ronald McDonald program and the can tab program since we had a recycle club. Dan took time out to come speak to our middle school students about volunteering and recycling can tabs. The kids had so many questions for him and loved him when he gave them a free happy meal coupon.
The fact that he took the time himself to come out to our school himself shows you how important what he did was to him. We had several parents who volunteered at the Hospital Ronald McDonald Rooms and houses all because of what he shared with us. I had even sent him a family or two who needed their support and he jumped right in there to make sure they had what they needed. He has a heart of love for kids. Once again prayers for comfort for all those who loved him and especially his family.
There will never be another Dan Harbaugh. He was “One of a Kind”! Wherever he went, he lit up the room with his positive energy and smile. He touched millions of lives, and we feel very blessed that he touched ours. We extend our warmest condolences to Kelly, Libby, and Jack. You had a wonderful husband and father. Just know there were a bunch of grown men crying like babies when we got the news. We all loved him too.
I was blessed to know Dan Harbaugh through my volunteer efforts with Big Brothers Big Sisters and then while he was at Ronald McDonald. Though I was just a volunteer, he treated me with respect and I learned so much from him. Condolences to his family and all blessed by his life.
What a nice and impactful person. I always loved seeing Dan because he was so nice to everyone. Not only was he very important to Ronald McDonald House, he made everyone around him feel important. You will be missed my friend.
The Ronald McDonald House family will miss Dan’s charismatic character, smile, and leadership. Thank you for your dedication to the families, their children, team, staff, volunteers, donors, and Board members for 30 years. You were one a kind. My condolences to his wife, his children, and the entire RMHC chapter in St. Louis.
Thank you for your mentorship and for always making me laugh whenever we saw each other at the conferences.
Sincerely,
Soraya (RMHC South Florida Chapter)
Sending our love and prayers from RMHC Iowa City. The RMHC network, and the world, has lost a very special person. Such a great man–funny, classy and smart. Our deepest sympathies to you.
Dan was such a wonderful gentleman.. My parents volunteered at RMHC on West Pine for many years. My family has a great fondness for Dan and everyone who makes RMHC the exceptional organization that it is. He always greeted us with a smile and a pat on the back. He was definitely one of the good ones. He will be missed.❤️
My deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, friends and many people that Dan touched throughout his much too short life. My late husband Bob Ragsdale and I met Dan when we were young and volunteering at Our Lady of Sorrows. He never said no, and never did not have a smile on his face. A light has been dimmed over the City of St. Louis at the loss of Dan Harbaugh. He has left quite a legacy of giving and service. Kelly, Libby and Jack, may you be filled with the warmth and love surrounding you and may your memories keep him alive in your lives.
I only had one interaction with Dan but it left a lasting impression on me of how to handle a sticky situation. The man was pure class and goodness. In telling others my strongly favorable impression of Mr. Harbaugh, I often heard that I had to meet his daughter. That she was pure gold. It hurts when a person that puts out so much good in the world leaves too early.
Kelly, I am sorry for your loss. Dan knew how to put a smile on your face he will be missed. I have great memories of my days delivering mail in your neighborhood. Jack in his cowboy outfit when he was probably only four years old and Libby being the good sister. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
The world is a lesser place today without Dan. He made everyone feel special with his smile and greeting. I had the great fortune of having a colleague of mine introduce me to Ronald McDonald Charities of St. Louis 20 years ago. I joined the golf committee and later served as Chairman of Corporate Sponsors and most recently on the Board of Directors for 6 years, where I have met some of the most wonderful and generous people in St. Louis, but Dan was the straw that stirred the drink! I can say that I am a better man for knowing Dan. He lit up the room with his positivity and generosity. I am going to miss him as will so many others. My prayers go out to Kelly, Libby, Jack his family and the legion of his friends
I’ve been volunteering at Ronald McDonald for over 10 years and have encountered Dan numerous times. I can honestly say he had a smile on his face every single time. We’re gonna miss you Dan.
Genuine. Kind. Humble. Sincere. Funny. And genuine (deserves to be mentioned twice). The type of guy you just want to be around. I moved away in 2011 but was back for a Cardinal game in 2018 or so. I texted Dan and typed “look to your left” (I was down the row from him). That smile lit up Busch Stadium! We always had tons of laughs.
My prayers to Kelly and the rest of the family. His legacy ensures you will always be surrounded by good people. STL will miss him greatly. You better have all of Kutis reserved—might be a record breaker!
Dan, as we said to you at the Groundbreaking of our newest Ronald McDonald House in St Louis last month that we can’t let you retire because there isn’t anyone that would ever be able to accomplish what you have in the past 30 years.
Your retirement was celebrated that day…but your outstanding legacy that you left us will live on forever. Our condolences and prayers go out to your wonderful family Kelly, Libby, and Jack. We will all miss you so much, Dan.
Marty and Donna Davis
I knew Dan through RMHC and other organizations in St. Louis. Dan had the kindest heart and warmest smile. He truly lived a life of integrity and meaning. His impact will live on.
I met Dan in 1985, when volunteering with Big Brothers & Big Sisters, and enjoyed watching him bloom and share his passion for kids in need over the ensuing decades. He left us far too soon, but I’m comforted that his legacy is enduring and his eternity secure.
To my fellow Griffin.
You were one of the reasons Vianney was such a special place and time.
A shining light in the Class of ’78
My heartfelt condolences to Kelly, Libby and Jack.
In life we meet some special people and Dan was one of them. His presence in the room always made things interesting and his wise counsel kept us on course. Most of all he was fun and it just wasn’t as fun when he wasn’t there we will miss you Dan. May you rest in eternal peace and power.
Hugs and love and healing energies to Kelly Libby Jack and family
After reading the comments there is not much left to say…I agree with everything that was said. Every morning I stop by McDonalds to get a cup of coffee and I always drop the change in the box for the RMH. As I drop the change in the box I always thought of Dan. God bless his family and may the good Lord welcome him with the warmth he has given to so many.
Only knew this man through friends but it sounds like he was an incredible role model and inspirational person who gave countless hours to wonderful organizations. Rest in peace.
My deepest sympathy to Kelly, Lobby, and Jack. Our loss is Heaven’s gain. Dan was truly a class act ad a wonderful man. I will always remember him and that classic smile whenever we met. Godspeed, buddy!
I knew Dan best when we were just kids in grade school at old MQU. Lots of memories from our days on the soccer field. It’s an honor to have worked with Dan throughout the years on various events for RMDH. He was one of the nicest humans you could ever meet, a special man and will be greatly missed by so many whose lives he touched along the way. Rest if Peace!
Had a chance to meet Dan at Cardinals game. What an amazing person to talk to.
RIP Sir.
Our deepest sympathies to the Harbaugh family from our old Santa Maria, K of C softball team when Dan and I were just young pups when we joined. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jim Harbaugh, S.J.
August 15, 2024 at 9:42 am
My siblings and I were always closest to Dan and our other cousins who were the children of Steve and Eileen. His father Steve was my godfather, and I always felt like I got the best. Dan was a mensch, and many, many people, in St. Louis and elsewhere, knew it. I’ve remembered him at Masses and to my friends, including friends on Zoom all over the world.
Sign me up again for what Mike Walsh said
Tremendous man
God bless the Harbaugh family! Love, Steve and Barb Oppland
Growing up across the street from Dan, he and his brothers and sisters were a more or less constant presence in the life of our family in years gone by. The comments here from those who knew him better later in life tell me that he remained the same as I remember him when he was young – kind; compassionate; friendly; nearly always happy – in short a joy to be around. He will always be remembered as someone we were lucky to know.
I met Dan when I worked at Southwest Airlines and was asked to represent the company with RMH our charity of choice. That became a friendship I’ll always cherish and always carry with me. I love Dan so much.
So many memories of this great man….
He inspired me to be a better public speaker because he was the king. He could connect with people, be it one on one or 1000 people. I’m not sure if he ever called me by name, he renamed me early on as Knucklehead. He once called me at midnight and said he was in jail and needed to be bailed out. I told him I’d get dressed and be out to get him, asking him where he was. He started laughing and told me it was a friendship test! He so very much loved Kellie and his children and would tell me he loved the trips to Florida and Sunday’s with the Fam. I’ll never forget his generosity, loyalty, and friendship.
“Hey buddy” began every interaction of ours over the past 11 years. Immediately I had a sense of calm enveloping me and it brought with it a wide range of topics to tee up for discussion. Our conversations always equated to fun, the positive and the excitement for what the future holds. His optimism and wit mixed in with a keen sense of humor made him a joy to be around. Kelly, Libby, and Jack, you were so fortunate to have such a special human being in your daily lives. Please keep all those reminders and memories of him often in your thoughts.
Save a seat for me in the stadium my friend and “buddy” (Go Rams!),
With heartfelt condolences,
Mike
I first met Dan at the United Way’s Executive Director’s events. You knew how much he loved his family and job just by how he talked about each. His commitment to serving children and their families going through life’s suffering is legendary. I recently got to spend more time with him during the Enterprise Bank and Trust advisory board meetings and he still had that same fire to serve the community. Deepest sympathies to the family, RMH and friends.
I didn’t know Dan as well as others, but the first time I met him in Florida and every time I saw him thereafter, I felt like I had known him for years. He was kind, welcoming, helpful, and full of joy. He left a legacy and will always be remembered by those he touched and helped along his life journey.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. Please know how special Dan was to so many people who had the pleasure of meeting him, learning from him, and were inspired by him to make the world a better place.
Kelly, Libby, and Jack, we are so very sorry for the loss of your wonderful husband and father. Dan was a great man and he definitely loved helping everyone. We have many great memories of our friendship when Jack and Tim were in school together and Dan coaching the boys basketball team. The community sure has lost a wonderful man! God bless you all!
Steve, Pat, Mark and family – So sorry to hear of Dan’s passing. Bob and I always enjoyed visiting with him when he would come to Phoenix. He was always joyful and would talk of how much he loved his job. Such a loss for all who knew him. Sending prayers for your family.