Obituary of Daniel J. McCormick

Daniel J. McCormick of Minneapolis, MN, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2023, at the age of 77. Born on September 28,1946, in Minneapolis, MN, he will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Dan cared deeply about the people in his life, especially his family, close friends and the many colleagues, business associates and clients with whom he worked. 

Dan was an extremely proud and loving father to his three children, Nicole Clough (Peter), Jenna McCormick Zen (Bobby), and Daniel McCormick (Abbie) and an adoring grandfather “Papa” to his grandchildren Josh, Ellie, Logan and Brianna Clough and Adaline and Emilia McCormick. He loved spending time with his children and their families, and it was always a priority for Dan. A beloved father, Dan was caring, generous and devoted to the well-being of those whom he loved most.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents Joseph Henry McCormick and Mary Bernice McCormick (Plaisance) and brothers Michael and John McCormick. He is survived by his three children, their mother, Bonny McCormick, and his grandchildren. Dan is also survived by his brothers, Tim McCormick (Linda) and Pat (Diane) and sisters, Mary Kaye (Tom), Margaret (Peg), Patti (Scott), and Kathy, nieces, nephews, extended family, and many wonderful friends.

Dan McCormick had a distinguished career serving as a senior executive and business advisor for more than 35 years. He amassed extensive experience leading and managing the operations of complex multifaceted behavioral health organizations and behavioral health networks. He was Managing Partner of The Chancellor Group, LLC, a management consulting firm that specialized in a myriad of strategic, operational, and financial issues confronting the health care industry.

Prior to The Chancellor Group, Dan served as CEO of many national and international organizations including The Hazelden Foundation, ETR Associates, Valley Hope, MedicAlert Foundation, Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital, ReliaStar Health Management, First Health, and Albert Lea Medical Center. A passionate and tireless advocate for the mentally ill, and those afflicted with and affected by addiction, Dan was a sought after and renowned expert in the behavioral health industry. He was recognized for his strategic and visionary leadership as well as his community service. His philanthropic support included leadership roles for the YMCA, Red Cross, and the United Way.

Dan served in the Vietnam War as a Hospital Corpsman (HM3) in the United States Marine Corps. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal as well as the Vietnam Service Medal. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance, and Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) degree from the University of Minnesota.

Above all else, Dan was a cherished father, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, friend, confidant, and mentor. Admired and loved by his family, friends and a vast professional network, Dan leaves behind a profound legacy created from his visionary intellect, common sense approach, strategic wisdom, enduring friendship, and love.

A Celebration of Dan’s life will be held on Thursday, December 28, 2023 at 11 AM at the Cremation Society of Minnesota (7110 France Avenue, Edina, MN 554435). For more information visit the Cremation Society of MN website.  In lieu of flowers, friends and family may contribute to the Daniel J. McCormick Wounded Warriors Project Fund in Dan’s memory.