We extend our deepest condolences to the loved ones of Daniel DiCesare upon his untimely passing.
Dan lived his life with honor, integrity and passion, qualities he brought to his time on AWS’ Board, of which he was a member for the past year. With kindness and commitment to our mission, we are grateful for his service. He was a good listener, critical thinker and thoughtful contributor to Board and staff conversations. He will be missed, not just at AWS but throughout the Kennebunks and New England beyond, where he was a dear friend, dedicated colleague and devoted community member.
In lieu of flowers, Dan’s family has asked that donations be made in his memory to AWS.
Obituary for Daniel Angelo DiCesare
Daniel Angelo DiCesare of Kennebunkport, Maine, passed away peacefully at home on August 23, 2025. Born in Malden, Massachusetts, in 1963, Dan was the devoted son of Elaine and Ronald DiCesare. He attended Malden Catholic High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically, before earning his degree from Bridgewater State University and then deciding his future lay in defending his country.
A man of unwavering patriotism, Dan was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force upon completion of Officer Training School at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. He served with distinction during Operation Desert Storm, attaining the rank of captain while flying numerous combat missions over Iraq in the formidable F-111F fighter-bomber, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for courage.
Afterwards, he joined the AF Reserve where he flew the C-5 Galaxy, America’s largest military transport aircraft. Dan was credited with flying weapons and armor vehicles into Mogadishu, Somalia in support of Army Special Forces in an operation since memorialized by the movie Black Hawk Down. Following his military service, Dan embarked on a successful career as a commercial pilot, earning numerous certifications and the admiration of his peers.
Dan was a passionate tennis player and longstanding member of the Kennebunk River Club, where he was one of the top-ranked members. His love of travel took him across the globe, including regular trips to Australia where he played at the prestigious Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club in Melbourne. He was a discerning collector of fine wine, Swiss watches, and nautical art and antiques, and his passion for speed was evident in his love of fast cars and boats, particularly his cherished Boston Whaler.
A dedicated member of the Kennebunkport community, Dan meticulously restored The Anchorage, a historic 1800s Victorian house on Goose Rocks Beach that had previously belonged to his parents. This labor of love reflected his deep connection to family history and his commitment to preserving the past for future generations. He was also a visionary real estate investor in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, further demonstrating his love for New England’s coastal beauty.
As a board member of the Kennebunk Animal Welfare Society, Dan demonstrated his commitment to causes close to his heart. Those who knew Dan will remember him for his loyalty, camaraderie, generous spirit, competitive play on the tennis court, and daily walks along the beach with his dog, Bijou. Whether piloting aircraft across continents, supporting active-duty military personnel, veterans, and first responders, or simply enjoying a sunset cruise, Dan approached life with enthusiasm and integrity.
A memorial service will be held at St. Martha Church in Kennebunk on November 8th at 11am.
