Daniel John O'Mara

Daniel John O’Mara lived a life defined by love for his family, loyalty to his friends, and a willingness to help others whenever they needed it. He passed away unexpectedly on March 31, 2026, at the age of 50, far earlier than anyone who loved him was ready for. Dan was born on June 17, 1975, in Butte, Montana, to Joseph and Inge O’Mara. Throughout his childhood he attended Greeley Elementary School, East Middle School, and Butte High School. School was never his favorite place, but he worked hard and graduated from Butte High School in 1993. Around 1991, while still in high school, Dan worked at A&W in Butte. After graduating, he briefly attended Montana Tech before deciding it wasn’t the right path for him. Soon after, he began what would become his lifelong career at Safeway. Safeway was more than just a job for Dan — it became a second family. He built lasting friendships with coworkers and customers alike, creating bonds that will never be forgotten. From a young age, Dan developed a deep love for hunting, hiking, and fishing. These adventures began with his dad Joe. A father and son whose bond went beyond titles—more like brothers, built on laughter, trust, and shared moments that only they understood. They stood side by side through life, not just as parent and child, but as best friends, equals in spirit, and forever connected by a love that was strong, rare, and unbreakable. They hiked into dozens of mountain lakes in the summer and would hunt every season until Joe wasn’t able. When his daughters were young, he loved bringing them along on adventures with the family dogs, Izzy and Scrappy. Dan had a great relationship with his brother Joe, leading to a great relationship with his sister-in-law Tammy, which also led to a very loving relationship with his nieces, Kayla and Brianna. He always had some sort of sarcastic remark or joke for them, he was more of a big brother to them than an uncle most times. Dan held a special place in his heart for his nieces and their children. Throughout life, Dan was always stopping by his home to have his mom's cooking, a bowl of cereal, or ice cream. He was always bringing his friends over late night for his shenanigan’s and Inge would always roll her eyes. Dan spent a lot of his mom's last days of fighting cancer at her home helping take care of her. Dan was greeted into heaven by his Mother Inge, but rest assured she made him take off his hat in the Lord's house. One of the traditions everyone looked forward to each year was going to pick out the Christmas tree with Dan, or eagerly waiting for him to bring one home. One of his most treasured hunts was in 2019, when he harvested a bighorn sheep with his friend Don Cooney and Don’s sons Wyatt and Tanner Cooney. Dan was incredibly proud of that hunt and the memories made during that trip. To his daughter Laynee, Dan was her hero, best friend, and the best dad she could have ever asked for. No matter what mistakes were made, he forgave easily and never held anything against her. In the end, he made sure everyone knew how much he loved her, especially Laynee herself. She will always remember that he made the absolute best milkshakes, and nobody made them like him. It wasn’t in a blender it was done by his hands and made with love. Dan was there for every step of her life and helped shape her into the person she is today. Laynee is grateful for every memory she shared with him and for the chance to have him as her dad. If she wrote everything she wanted to say about how great he was, it would fill an entire book or maybe two. She will miss his smile, his laugh, reminding him to drive safe, and every little thing about who he was. To Allie, Dan was more than a stepdad. He was a role model, a friend, a teacher, a shoulder to cry on, and a goofball who loved to joke around. He always treated her like she was his own daughter. When Allie was younger, she would often go to Grandma Inge’s house after school, where she and Dan spent time watching endless poker games and playing with his childhood toys. He took her hiking, fishing, and on walks with the dogs. Some of her favorite memories include sitting on his lap while he let her steer his old Toyota in the mountains, and hiking as a family to one of his favorite lakes. Over the years they shared many memories, deep talks, and a bond that remained strong even into her adulthood. Later in life, Dan became a proud grandfather to Rylan, Amelia, and Romeo. He loved seeing their little faces during visits for homemade dinners, holidays, or even surprise stops at Safeway. Dan and Rylan were constant cuddle buddies. He always supported Amelia’s dance fundraisers, even if he ended up giving away the candy and goodies he bought afterward. When Romeo was born, Dan wasted no time meeting him and helping set up his playpen and anything else the family needed. He especially loved Romeo’s ever-changing hairstyles and grumpy little expressions. Dan and Jodi met in 2001 after exchanging phone numbers at Hastings and going out together for comedy night. That night began a relationship that would span more than two decades and shape a large part of both of their lives. Over the next 23 years they built a life together filled with adventures, challenges, laughter, and memories that only come from growing up side by side. They shared countless hiking, fishing, boating, camping trips, and dozens of concerts that created a home full of stories and traditions. One of Jodi’s favorite memories was attending a Chicago Bears vs. Raiders game in Las Vegas. Even though the Bears won, Dan was a great sport and was genuinely happy for her. Dan stepped into Jodi’s life not only as a partner, but also as a father figure to her daughter Allie. From the very beginning he welcomed her with open arms, helping guide and support her as she grew up. Their bond continued to grow through the years, built on trust, laughter, and the everyday moments that make a family. In May 2009, they welcomed their daughter, Laynee Rayne O’Mara. Watching Dan become a father was one of the greatest joys of Jodi’s life. From the moment he saw Laynee, he knew exactly how to be the dad she needed, and together they shared the pride and love that comes with raising a daughter. Laynee quickly became the light of his life. After many years together, Dan and Jodi chose to go their separate ways in 2023, but their connection never truly disappeared. They remained close friends and continued sharing family holidays and dinners. The life they built together and the memories they shared over more than two decades will always remain a meaningful part of both of their stories. Later, Dan found love again with Heather. What began as a strong friendship at work quickly grew into something deeper that felt meant to be. They shared many adventures together, especially hikes with beautiful views where Dan would always say, “Let’s take a selfie.” Dan became an important and positive influence in Heather’s children’s lives. Even though they jokingly didn’t want to share their mom, they could see how happy she was and welcomed him with love. He would tease her about how much she loved doing puzzles, but would also remind her that they fit together perfectly — just like one. Heather will forever be his “backpack,” and he will always be her “dairy man.” Those who knew Dan — also known as Dan the Man, Dan-o, Danny-O, Diggity Danny- O, and many other nicknames — will remember the size of his heart. Dan truly loved everyone he met. He treasured hunting trips with Morgan, Don, Wyatt, and Tanner Cooney and spent hours preparing for each one. He also shared many outdoor adventures with friends including Bill Daly, Will Peterson, Jamie Stephenson, Mike Heinrich, Cade Wyant, Dave Harris, Brent Richards, and many others. Dan also had a special friendship with Donny Leverton, who often helped with upkeep around the house and shared many meals and conversations with him over the years. Dan is survived by his daughter Laynee O’Mara, bonus daughter Allie Henderson and bonus grandchildren Rylan Olson, Amelia Martinez, and Romeo Martinez who all held a special place in his life. His father Joseph O’Mara, his brother Joe ( Tammy ) O’Mara, his nieces Brianna O’Mara and Kayla ( Cedric ) Hewitt, great niece and nephews Kesler O’Mara, Tanyon Hewitt, and Kayleyanna Hewitt. Beloved friend and former partner, Jodi Reynolds. Loving partner, Heather Tischmak and her kids, Mason, Ashlynn and Aubrey. Numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his loving mother, Inge O’Mara. Grandmothers and grandfathers, Waltraut "Wally" McClafferty, James "Jim" McClafferty, and John and Frances O'Mara. A Celebration of Life will be held on April 25, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Butte Depot. Friends, family, and all who knew Dan are welcome to attend and celebrate his life. Dan lived the kind of life where a handshake meant something, friendships lasted a lifetime, and family always came first. Dan’s laughter, kindness, and love for the people in his life will never be forgotten by those lucky enough to know him.

Tributes

Daniel John O'Mara

June 17, 1975 - March 31, 2026