Daniel Carney

FITCHBURG – Daniel Carney, age 78, of Fitchburg, formerly of Hazelhurst, WI, died on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Agrace Hospice Care in Fitchburg.

Dan was born on June 9, 1947, the firstborn child of Norman “Butch” and Ruth (Hasenfuss) Carney. He attended the UW Oshkosh, where he studied to become a teacher and was a proud member of the Sigma Epsilon Fraternity, forming lifelong friendships.

During his summers, Dan kept busy “robbing trains” at Fort Dells—where he also convinced the love of his life to give him a chance. He married Cynthia (Cindy) Curry in 1980. Together they settled “Up North,” where they raised their daughters. Dan continued his passion for "educating the youth of America", and strongly supported multiple high school sports teams in various capacities.

Throughout his life, Dan was an enthusiastic collector of many things and eagerly shared his love of all sports, birds and trains with anyone willing to listen. He fueled his collector mindset with years of running The Baseball Card Shoppe in Minocqua.  In retirement, Dan volunteered his time with the Hazelhurst Lions Club and as an election officiant until he moved to the Madison area to be closer to family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Cindy; his daughters, Erin Carney and Amanda (Jonathan) Mitchell; his grandchildren, Charlie and Olivia; his brother, Mike (Beverly) Carney; his sister, Sherill (Gregg) Booth; and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Dan’s Life will be held on April 13 at 9:00 a.m. at Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the UW Carbone Cancer Center or to a charity of your choice.

Pflanz Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage, is assisting the family.