Dan Tarpey

True Gentleman

Passes Today

It is with deep regret and sadness that I inform you of the passing of the Father of the Thomas A. Yawkey Baseball League of Boston.

Commissioner Dan Tarpey entered into rest this morning at 1:30AM.

Dan was surrounded by his entire family at his son Dan's Residence in Cohasset, MA. He is at peace now and his suffering is over.

Our good friend did so much to nurture us as sportsman in the Yawkey League over the years. I am so proud to have been a friend of his and know how much he loved all of you and your players.

Many men younger than Dan had him as a solid a true role model. He was gentle and kind. BUT - he would put you in your place when he thought the time was ripe.

I loved Dan so much. He paid particular attention to me and my team over the years. He knew the gritty inner-city kids I dealt with and tried to straighten out. Every night when he came to the game he would be careful not to spend too much time with us without strolling over to the other side. No favorites with Big Dan. He loved everyone.

Oh - how I am going to miss those visits. How I am going to miss the stories he would tell and the wry humor he espoused.

Dan Tarpey was the best of the Irish Americans. He kept his faith until the end. He raised a vast and wonderful family.

I am sad for those young men who come into our League who will never have the benefit of knowing one of the greatest men I ever knew.

He could have lunch at the Erie with his Crew. Pay a visit to a Mayor, Council Person or Congressman in the afternoon and rub elbows with big business leaders.

BUT, his place was at home - being a father and grand father. Dan always made time for the Yawkey League. He was there until the end. His last game was the Play In Game: West Roxbury v McKay Club game at Ronan Park in mid August. He was frail but still himself.

I am going to be lost with out him. He tempered me better than anyone. Telling me when he thought I went too far and encourage me to move forward with a good idea or sanction.

In all, Greater Boston will be an empty place without Dan Tarpey. I called Boston City Council President Maureen Feeney when I found out the news. She loved Dan so much and said how proud she was to share the Opening Ceremony of our Military All Star Game with Big Dan.

Dan is at home now in a place that would resemble the spot he loved so much Ireland. There are trumpets sounding up above today welcoming a TRUE GENTLEMAN. One of the best men who ever walked this earth Dan Tarpey.

Complete details about Dan's wake and funeral will be published on the YBL Webpage when they are available.

We love you Dan and will miss you so much!

Respectfully,

David J. McKay
President - Thomas A. Yawkey Baseball League

PIC CAPTION: Here is Big Dan tarpey (right) with his best Pal Al Thomas at the 2007 Yawkey Baseball League Hall of Fame Banquet.

David J. McKay
President - Thomas A. Yawkey Baseball League
31 Ely Road
Boston, MA 02124
Cell: 617-538-8277
Email: yblprez@verizon.net
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