ESDALE, Daniel F. Longtime resident of Hyde Park, passed away on July 1, 2025. Beloved husband of Emily (Shalno) Esdale. Devoted father of Joan Cullen of Quincy, Maria Esdale Farrell and her husband Martin of Hyde Park, Anthony Esdale and his wife Irene of Walpole, and the late Daniel Esdale Jr. Loving Papa of Katy, Michael, Joseph, Nancy, James, Dacey, Martin, Gianna, Ava, Gabrielle, Anthony, Sean, Alanna, Charles, Michael, Mia, and the late DJ. He also leaves 6 cherished great-grandchildren. Brother of the late Gerald and John Esdale. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
We respectfully announce the passing of Dan Esdale of Hyde Park, a lifelong resident and esteemed business leader of Deco System Inc., whose contributions significantly influenced the transportation trucking industry. DECO trucks have become familiar sights on major highways, reflecting Dan’s unwavering commitment to excellence. He was known for treating employees as family and personally assisting drivers at any hour. Dan served on numerous trucking committees and was honored with several distinctions, including the Eagle Spirit Award from the United States Postal Service.
Dan Esdale also demonstrated exceptional dedication to hockey in Massachusetts, working to make the sport more accessible to families across the region. His name became synonymous with hockey discussions throughout the state. His roles included coach, President of Hyde Park Youth Hockey, President of the Greater Boston League, President of the Boston Select League, President of Massachusetts Hockey, Massachusetts Player Development Chairman, Massachusetts Satellite Training Program coordinator, Coach in Chief of the USA Coaching Education Program, and ultimately, executive member of USA Hockey. Dan played a transformative role in advancing hockey in Massachusetts and neighboring states. As a founder of the Eastern Junior Hockey League, he helped establish it as a leading development league for both players and referees. His legacy endures among colleagues and those who benefited from his vision. Dan is recognized as an inductee in both the Massachusetts Hall of Fame and the USA Hockey Hall of Fame Builder's category. He is also director emeritus of USA Hockey and Mass Hockey. Dan played a key role in partnering with the Boston Bruins to create a charitable license plate with the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. Proceeds from the Bruins plate support youth hockey in Massachusetts
Visiting hours will be held at the George F. Doherty & Sons Wilson-Cannon Funeral Home 456 High St. Dedham on Monday, July 7th from 4-8pm. Funeral from the funeral home on Tuesday, July 8th at 9am, followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Mary’s Church, Dedham at 10am. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Interment in St. James section of St. Joseph Cemetery.