Michael Daly

Michael Joseph Daly (aka Dale, Bert, Big Mike) of Malvern, PA passed away unexpectedly Monday, February 22.



Nothing in Mike's life compared to his love for his family. He is survived by his best friend and wife, Arleen (Cini) his son Michael Daly (Kelly), daughters Lauren Donohue (Kevin), Sarah Offen (Richard) and grandchildren, Ben, Kevin, Lucy, Joey, Libby, Cora and Annie. He was brother to Rosemary D. Bremhorst (James) and the late Michele Abramowitz (Nathan). Since becoming a grandfather almost 9 years ago, he has loved nothing more than spending time with them and getting to know each of them from the moment they were born, literally.



Michael grew up in Drexel Hill and attended Cardinal O'Hara where he met Arleen Cini, his wife of over 41 years. Mike was a hall of fame guard on O'Hara's only Catholic League Championship basketball team in 1968. From O'Hara, Mike went on to Villanova University where he made countless friends and played basketball for the Wildcats under Coach Jack Kraft. Mike was a part of the 1971 team that played for the National Championship against UCLA. He remained an active member of the Villanova community throughout his adult life and was a proud father of three Villanova graduates.



Following his graduation from Villanova, Mike went on to get his MBA at Temple University which led to a career in healthcare management and consulting. Mike's innate ability to inspire, mentor and connect with people contributed to his success in his professional life. He spent the majority of his career with Dallas-based VHA where he rose to the level of Senior Executive Vice President where he advised Hospital management teams and boards around the country. Mike was a natural born leader with sound judgement and often became his clients most trusted advisor and friend.



Mike's unique blend of attributes was in high demand. Consistent with his generous and selfless spirit, Mike always found the time to give. Mike served on the Crozer Keystone Healthcare System Board since 2013, chairing the Strategic Committee since 2014 and being elected Vice Chair of the board in 2015. He served as a long time board member of the Vermont-based Cassatt RRG member-owned insurance company. Closer to his heart, Mike served as the Head of the Philadelphia area American Diabetes Association, the board of directors of the Villanova University Educational Foundation in support of Villanova athletes, as a board member for Books 'n Hoops to benefit inner city youth, among others.



While Mike achieved success in his athletic and professional life, his greatest accomplishments were in his personal life. Mike's personal belief system could be summed up in one phrase that he mentioned constantly to his children, "Never underestimate the impact you can have on someone's life." Mike's friendship was a valued asset to all those who had it. He was a fierce competitor but was fair and honorable. He had a sharp wit and an infectious smile. Mike had everything one wanted in a friend.



Mike enjoyed golf with his closest friends, following his beloved Villanova Wildcats basketball team and spending time with his family in Ocean City, New Jersey.

Michael Joseph Daly was bigger than life. He will be sorely missed by the many who treasured his presence and influence in their lives. We are forever grateful for all that Mike taught us. We are all better people for having known him and we thank God for allowing us to experience Mike and be a part of his life. May he rest in peace.



Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation 6:00-9:00 Friday Evening the 26th at the Donohue Funeral Home, 3300 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073, 610-353-6300 and 9:30-10:50AM Saturday at St. Thomas of Villanova, university campus, Villanova, PA, followed by his Funeral Mass 11:00AM. Int. Calvary Cem.



In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are requested to the Michael J. Daly, M.D. Memorial Scholarship, Villanova University Advancement, 800 Lancaster Ave, Villanova, PA 19085-1673