Dr. Daniel Dare Rooney

Dr. Daniel Dare Rooney passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026, at the age of 83, surrounded by his beloved wife and four children.

Born on January 28, 1943, in Cleveland, Ohio, Dan devoted his life to caring for others. He attended Hillsdale College, earning his medical degree from Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his medical training at Georgetown University. He went on to build a distinguished private practice in Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery, serving patients for decades in Vienna, Fair Oaks Hospital and Fairfax Hospital. Known for his exceptional skill and steady presence, he earned the trust of countless patients, colleagues, and friends throughout his career.

Dan shared 57 wonderful years of marriage with his wife, Grace, who was the love of his life. Together they built a family centered on love, faith, and unwavering support. He was the proud father of Shannon, Sean, Corey, and Kristyn. His greatest joy was his family, and he treasured every moment with his five granddaughters Tyler, Jaclynn, River, Winn, and Parker – who knew him as “Doc”.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Olive Rooney, as well as his five brothers – Ed, Jack, Ray, Robert, and Brian – all of whom, like Dan, dedicated their lives to medicine as physicians.

Outside of his medical practice, he loved the excitement of horse racing, a good round of golf, spirited poker games with friends, and dabbling in banking and real estate.

Dan was truly the life of the party. With his quick wit, infectious laugh, and genuine warmth, he had a remarkable ability to charm everyone he met and make them feel like an old friend. His generosity, larger-than-life personality, and unwavering friendship left an unforgettable impression on all who knew him. During the holidays, he dressed up as the Fair Oaks Hospital Santa Claus bringing joy and smiles to patients, families, and hospital staff alike.

In true form, Dan made one final gift to the profession he loved by donating his body to medical education at Kansas City University College, where he graduated in 1968. A final act of generosity that reflects his selflessness and commitment to advancing future generations of physicians.

Above all, Dan will be remembered for his sense of humor and his unwavering dedication to his family, friends and patients. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched as a physician, husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend.

All are invited to a Celebration of Life on Friday, August 21 at St. John Neumann Catholic Church (11900 Lawyers Rd, Reston, VA 20191) at 10:30am, followed by a reception at Country Club of Fairfax (5110 Ox Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030) at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks to make donations to Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine via the link here. Please note: “In Memory of Dr. Daniel Dare Rooney” with your gift. (https://www.kansascity.edu/give/ways-to-give)

If Dr. Rooney touched your life, our family would be honored if you shared a favorite story (even the embarrassing ones!), memory, or photograph on his memorial page so future generations can continue to know the man we loved so much.