Daniel J. Ireton
1954 - 2026
Daniel J. Ireton, 71, a lifelong resident of Cromwell, Connecticut, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on June 4, 2026. Born into the history of the Monnes Dairy Farm, operated for many years by his grandfather, John J. Monnes, Dan grew up with deep roots in the community. After graduating from Cromwell High School, he established a successful, lifelong career as a highly knowledgeable mechanic, service director, and service manager for several local car businesses. Beyond his professional life, Dan was known for his personal interests; such as he briefly ran a hot dog cart famous for its chili dogs, though his true culinary masterpiece was his signature meatball - with succatosh a very close second. He was a dedicated Lifetime Member of the Middletown Elks Lodge 771, a proud tradition passed down to his sons, Ryan and Brandon, who serve as fourth-generation members.
Whether he was hanging out with a cold beverage at his beloved "Two Bay Cafe" (garage), happily riding his favorite John Deere lawnmower around the yard, boating on the Connecticut River, or taking trips across the Northeast - even if just for a "quick" lunch to Cape Cod for clam chowder, Dan embraced life's simple pleasures to the fullest. Known affectionately as Danny, Dan, and "Pop Pop," his greatest legacy remains the family he loved.
He is predeceased by his mother, Catherine Monnes Ireton, his father, Richard Ireton, and his brother, John Ireton. He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Erin Ireton, who was the bedrock of his life. He is also survived by his sister, Kate Ireton. His memory will be fiercely cherished by his three children: Ryan Ireton and his wife Kelly, Brandon Ireton and his significant other Katrina Skroupa, and Shannon Ireton. He also leaves behind his six adored grandchildren—Mallory, Charlotte, Delaney, Connor, Jackson, and Bradley—along with his nephews and a niece, and countless lifelong friends.
Dan's warmth, his quick wit, and the open-door policy at the "Two Bay Cafe" will be profoundly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. A private celebration of life, with close family and friends, will be held in honor of Daniel, Dan, Danny, and Pop Pop. There will be no calling hours.
"To the world he was a mechanic, a boater, and a friend—but to his family, he was our absolute anchor."