Daniel McDonagh, 62, of St. Mary's City, MD passed peacefully on Monday, January 18, 2016 at Charlotte Hall Veteran's Home. He was born on December 23, 1953, in New York City and grew up in Essex County, NJ to the late John J. McDonagh and Audrey Kress McDonagh.

Dan felt the calling to serve his country and was commissioned in the U.S. Navy following graduation from The Citadel with a degree in history and political science. Dan proudly served 20 years as a surface warfare officer, with specialties in operations, engineering, intelligence and tactical modeling and simulation, including a combat tour in Operation Desert Storm. While on active duty, he earned advanced degrees in Maritime Affairs and National Security Policy. Following retirement from active duty, Dan settled in St. Mary's County, continuing tactical modeling and simulation work at Patuxent River Naval Air Station.

A man of deep faith, Dan was an active member of the Cornerstone Presbyterian Church. An avid gamer, he was known for his highly detailed historical miniatures game designs and scenarios, and for developing the National Security Decision Making Game, bringing the professionalism of government modeling and simulation to civilian venues where he blended entertaining play with an educational experience. Known for his keen mind, quick wit, and his drive and discipline, Dan was an extraordinary instructor and story teller, and someone who gave of his time and energy generously and without hesitation.

Loved, respected and admired by a wide circle of friends, Dan will be remembered for his commitment to God and country, family and friends.

Dan is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth of St. Mary's City, MD; sons, Matthew and Michael of New York, NY; brother, Mark (Cathy) of Gales Ferry, CT; and sister-in-law, Bea McDonagh. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Jack McDonagh.

Family will receive friends for Dan's Life Celebration on Saturday, January 30, 2016 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., with a Funeral Service celebrated by Pastor Walter Nilsson 3:00 p.m., at Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, 23075 Town Creek Drive, Lexington Park, MD 20653. Interment will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD), Radnor Station Building 2, Suite 320, 290 King of Prussia Road, Radnor, PA 19087 or www.theaftd.org and Charlotte Hall Veteran Home Memory Care Unit, 29449 Charlotte Hall Road, Charlotte Hall, MD 20622. Arrangements by Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.