Daniel "Dan" James Orangias

Louisville - Dan was born on 02/12/1933 in Oak Park Illinois to Michele "Mike" Orangias (1909-1994) and Angelina Malpier Orangias (1912-1938). Dan's parents had 4 children together before she passed. Mike later married Marie Hartman Orangias and they had 6 children. Dan peacefully passed away on 04/08/2021 in the comfort of his home with his children holding him and expressing their love for him.

Dan is well known for 41 years as General Manager / Co-Owner of 43 McDonald's Restaurants in Louisville Kentucky. He was known as "DanDan The Hamburger Man" and he created the Daily Double sandwich that was adopted nationwide. Dan was a Veteran of The Korean Conflict and served as Corporal / Quarter Master from 1953-1955. While living in Melrose Park Illinois, he was as a union leader and trained employees at the American Can Company. Dan was an avid golfer, pool shark, and exceptional bowler. He loved playing cards and it was nearly impossible to beat him in a game of checkers. When he moved to Louisville to become involved with McDonalds restaurants, he helped coach little league baseball and became a dedicated fan of The Louisville Cardinals, hardly missing a football or basketball game.

Dan was a "Certified Charmer". He became "engaged" to nearly every waitress in Louisville and awarded each of them with his handmade dollar bill ring as a part of their tip for serving his meals. Dan was a hardworking family man. He was a humble man of service. All he ever wanted was for everyone around him to feel loved and be joyful. He was intelligent, generous, brave, witty, and hilarious… a man with many jokes. Most of all, Dan was the most wonderful father to his 7 children, 10 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren.

Dan is survived by his children: Mike Orangias, Joseph Orangias, Darlene "Dar" Orangias, Danette (Terry) Miller, Frank Orangias (Calvin Matthews), Debra (David) Hill, and Danielle (Todd) Whitener. His grandchildren: Mike Orangias, Dana Grinestaff, Jason Davenport, Jennifer Feige, Joseph "Joe Joe" Orangias, Joey Daniel, Christina Clements, Courtney Evanson, Jeremy Grawemeyer (deceased), and Tiara Whitener. His great grandchildren: Bella, Lilly & Cora Feige; Skye Grawemeyer; Charlotte Evanson; Owen, Luke & Hudson Daniel; and Cole & Nolan Davenport. His siblings: Rose Bartz, Mildred Gatti, Gloria Henderson, Carol Ziert, Linda Pettie, Gail Orangias, Tony Orangias, and deceased siblings Frank and Charles Orangias.

The family is grateful for your grace and understanding that this is a private service.

Contributions in honor of Dan can be made to the Ronald McDonald House via their website at https://rmhc-kentuckiana.org.

Online condolences may be left by visiting NewcomerKentuckiana.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Courier-Journal from Apr. 11 to Apr. 12, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Daniel Orangias

Sponsored by The Courier-Journal.

14 Entries

William Hainsworth

February 4, 2022

Uncle Dan,
You will be truly missed as much as you were loved. Rest well.

Jerry W Morrow

February 3, 2022

My condolences to the Orangias family. Dan was always so kind and hospitable to me every time I would visit from Chicago. During my few visits I was fortunate to play some golf with Dan meet some very nice friends and hear some wonderful jokes and stories. May he rest in peace.

Carol Woosley-Coates

April 14, 2021

I am so sorry for your loss! I worked with Dan at Preston Hwy McDonalds in the early 70’s and then at Fern Creek with Mike. Dan was always very pleasant and worked very hard. I know he will be missed by friends and especially his family

Leslie Cherokee Phelps

April 13, 2021

Dan was one of my first major influences. I will always remember him. Rest in God´s Grace.

William Hainsworth

April 12, 2021

He was one of my favorite relatives in the world. He will be greatly missed.

Sue Towson

April 12, 2021

Dan, Was just a wonderful person, and a great boss. He made you want to be the best. I loved working for him.
I'm sure he is now looking down on all of his family, and telling them everything is going to okay, because he will be right beside you. Still showing you the way . May he rest in peace, and God bless the family.
All my love Sue.

Karen and David Gatti

April 12, 2021

How does one start with just one memory when there are so many memories shared with this wonderful man. David has spent the last few days recounting all the ways Uncle Dan was so instrumental in everyone's lives, but especially his. He was such a gentle soul, kind-hearted and caring. I still have the last dollar bill ring he made for me when he visited Mom and Dad in Florida several years back. David is going to miss his poker games with Dan and the gang so very much. We are heartbroken for all of you but please know you are in our thoughts with so much love as you celebrate the incredible person who was Daniel James Orangias. His legacy lives on in each of you.

Steve Scott

April 12, 2021

A kinder, more thoughtful person I have not yet met. A dear, dear friend who taught me so many things in business and about life. To our McDonald's, G & M Foods and Louisville friends, Nancy & I share in your grieving. This man will be missed by the many souls that he touched. "A life well lived!" See you in heaven my friend.
Steve Scott, Tampa, Florida.

Donnie Young

April 12, 2021

To the Orangias Family,
We are sorry to receive news of everyone´s loss. Dan was a special man and was always so welcoming to me. His vibrant smile and unique humor will be dearly missed. Best wishes! Donnie and Stephanie

Aimee Gatti and family

Planted Trees

Wendy Colley

April 12, 2021

Sorry for your loss. What a wonderful legacy in the living to follow.

Gina Gatti

April 12, 2021

What an exceptional man your daddy was. His smile was something to see and feel. What a wonderful life he lived. I´m so sorry for your loss. He is with everyone of You, watching over You. I love you, Uncle Dan.

Betsy Nagel

April 11, 2021

Courtney, Christina, Dar and the rest of the family, we are so sorry for your loss. So many thoughts and prayers.
Love,
The Nagel´s
(Michael, Betsy, Olivia, and Adelynn)