Daniel P. Koen, 85, of Burlington, formerly of Bedford, passed away in the comfort of his home, on Sunday, August 23, 2026. He was a devoted husband, loving father, public servant, and a true friend to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Daniel was born in Boston, one of four children of the late Thomas A. and Stella (Czupryna) Koen. He was raised in Somerville and graduated from North Cambridge Catholic High School. Before beginning a career in public service as a firefighter for the City of Somerville, Daniel enlisted in the Army. After receiving his honorable discharge from the Army, Daniel met and married his wife of 46 years, Juanita Bernedo, originally from Lima, Peru.

Daniel and Juanita were loving parents to their two daughters, Nancy and Maria. The family first made their home in Arlington before eventually settling in Bedford, MA.

Daniel was loyal to his family, community and faith. He had a strong work ethic which he instilled in his daughters and an uncanny memory for fun little known facts. His work ethic was a reflection of the kind of man he was, humble, dependable, and willing to do whatever was necessary for the good of others , especially those he loved.

Following his retirement from the fire department, Daniel continued to keep busy. He became a bus driver for C&W Transportation in Lexington and also worked at the Ice Palace in Burlington, where he proudly drove the Zamboni. He enjoyed meeting people wherever his work took him, and his outgoing personality made it nearly impossible for him to go anywhere without making a new friend. He also cherished old friends including his group of veteran friends that he looked forward to meeting with regularly at the local McDonald's.

Daniel was an easygoing and gregarious gentleman with a heart of gold. He had a wonderful ability to make people feel welcome and valued. A simple trip to Wegmans could easily turn into a social event, as Daniel would often walk in to do his shopping and come out having made three new friends. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, and if someone needed something, Daniel was the kind of person who would do his best to be there.

He lived his life humbly and with an unmistakably positive spirit. He was happiest when he was taking care of others, especially his family. He found joy in the simple things, cherished the people around him, and never seemed to take life for granted. A devoted family man, Daniel's cherished making memories with those he loved and reminiscing about childhood memories, especially those he made with his brother, Tom (Tio).

Daniel was also a devoted fan of Elvis Presley, and his playful personality often came through at the end of a conversation when he would humorously channel the King himself and say, “Thank you, thank you very much.” It was a fitting sign-off from a man whose warmth, humor, and kindness left an impression on everyone he met.

Daniel was predeceased by his loving wife Juanita, and his brother-in-law James Coogan.

He is survived by his beloved daughters, Nancy Koen of Burlington, MA, Maria Roderick and her husband Charles of Canton, MA., his siblings, Virginia Coogan of Wakefield, Thomas Koen and his wife Claire of Woburn, and Sheila Fletcher and her husband Thomas of Brunswick, ME., as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and close friends. 

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his visitation Saturday September 5th from 2pm to 4pm at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St. Burlington. A service to follow in the funeral home at 4pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Somerville Fire Department Arrangements are by Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home.