Daniel K. McCarthy

HARBERT - Daniel K. McCarthy, 71, of Harbert, MI passed away Sunday, November 23, 2025 at Corewell Lakeland Hospital in St. Joseph, MI in the comforting presence of his devoted partner of 15 years, Paivi Ekroth of South Bend, IN.

Dan grew up in Homewood, IL, Homewood-Flossmoor Class of 1972. Graduated with a B.A. from the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago and a M.A. from Governor's State University in University Park, IL.

Private trumpet instructor for 40 years, first in Homewood-Flossmoor-Chicago Heights. Relocated to Harbert, MI in 1990, having spent happy summers with his grandmother and aunts on Michigan St., next to Warren Dunes. Cherished his patch of Thoreau-like solitude.

Taught students in Michigan City and Lakeshore Public Schools, Andrews University, Lake Michigan College, La Salle Academy, and Notre Dame University (adjunct assistant professor). Member of St. Joseph Municipal Band ("on the bluff") for many summers. Accomplished soloist, as well as ensemble player. Life-long, self-learner, follower of Yogananda and the Self-Realization Fellowship. Studied catalogs of Gregorian chants to Baroque, Satchmo to Miles Davis, Hendrix to Lady Gaga. Appreciated Paivi expertly organizing trips to Hawaii, her native Finland, Belgium, Dublin, and Mexico.

Predeceased by his parents, Daniel and Mary McCarthy, and brother, Robert D. McCarthy. Besides Paivi (and her sister's family, Kirsi, Petteri and Werneri of Brussels, Belgium) he is survived by a sister, Mary L. McCarthy of Three Oaks, MI (formerly of Palatine, IL), niece Bridget Borth (Matthew Kordbegli), nephews Jeffrey Borth (Katherine), Brian Borth (Chelsea), Alexander McCarthy, and Logan McCarthy (Ariel Frankeny). The woodland critters will miss him as well, especially the birds.

Arrangements entrusted to Purely Cremations-Starks Heritage Chapel in Berrien Springs. Internment private at Riverside Cemetery in Three Oaks.

Donations to:

Berrien County Cancer Service: https://bccancerservice.org, 3900 Hollywood Road, St. Joseph, MI 49085

Self-Realization Fellowship, https://members.yogananda -srf.org/donation, International Headquarters 3880 San Rafael Avenue, Los Angeles, CA.