Daniel Chiasson

Daniel Michael Chiasson, 68, of Waltham, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Born on September 15, 1957, Daniel was the beloved son of the late Mary E. Chiasson and Edmond T. Chiasson. A lifelong resident of Waltham, he built a life centered around friendship, laughter, and meaningful conversation.

Daniel proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force. He then went on to spend the majority of his working years in the HVAC industry, where he was respected for his strong work ethic, skilled craftsmanship, and willingness to always lend a helping hand.

Not much bothered him, and he lived by a simple philosophy of "live and let live"—as long as no one was hurting anyone else, he accepted people as they were. His calm, nonjudgmental outlook on life was one of the many reasons he was so easy to love and be around.

A true people person, Daniel had a remarkable gift for conversation. He could talk to anyone about anything, always eager to listen, share stories, and make connections. His warmth, humor, and outgoing personality made him deeply loved by all who knew him.

He was well known for his deep, powerful singing voice and his love of music, especially the music of Johnny Cash. A talented guitar player, Daniel enjoyed performing and singing karaoke wherever there was an opportunity—whether at a local bar, restaurant, or around a campfire, bringing joy and energy to those around him.

He spent many evenings socializing at the VFW, American Legion, and the French American Club in Waltham, where he formed friendships, shared countless laughs, and created many cherished memories.

Daniel was also a passionate history enthusiast with an impressive knowledge of American history and an ability to vividly discuss nearly any moment in time. Exceptionally gifted with numbers, he also had a natural talent for math, often joking about the many weekends he spent helping his daughter with her math homework—wishing she had inherited his ease with numbers.

He had a deep love of travel, especially to Costa Rica, where he vacationed often in his younger years. Fluent in Spanish, he never missed an opportunity to use it—happily striking up conversations wherever he went. He especially enjoyed the company that came with it, and by his own account (and never seriously disputed by anyone who knew him), he was something of a ladies' man in his day—confident, charming, and always just 'practicing his Spanish,' of course.

He considered himself something of a human GPS, and never missed an opportunity to give directions in impressive detail—even when no one was lost yet, or had any intention of going where he was pointing. Getting from point A to point B with him usually came with at least three landmark references, a memory from 1987, and a firm belief that 'you can't miss it.'

He was a devoted and loving father to his daughter Michele and son Christopher, and took great pride in his children. He shared his love of travel with them, and the trips they took together created memories they will always cherish. He loved his children unconditionally.

He was predeceased by his parents, Mary E. Chiasson and Edmond T. Chiasson, his brother Dennis Chiasson and sister Margaret Chiasson. He is survived by his daughter Michele and her husband Daniel Benoit; his son Christopher and his wife Carolyn; his ex-wife Linda Murphy Chiasson, his sister Anne Chiasson Arnold; his brother Edmond Chiasson; his three grandsons, Lucas, Zachary, and Maximus; and several nieces and nephews, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Throughout his illness, his larger-than-life personality, humor, and wit remained ever-present, often bringing smiles and laughter to the nursing home staff who cared for him for many years and grew deeply fond of him. He was truly one of a kind.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on May 16, 2026, from 1-5pm at the French American Club, located at 193 Elm St, Waltham, MA 02453. Daniel always said to have a celebration when his time came. Come enjoy the sound of the best of all Dan's favorite music, along with some light refreshments and drinks.