Donald M. Casey Jr.

Donald M. Casey, Jr., 66, passed away on February 19, 2026 in South Bend, Indiana. Don was a man of passion, integrity, generosity and faith whose life was distinguished by his dedication to his loved ones, an extraordinary career and an enduring connection with his alma mater, the University of Notre Dame.

Don was married to his partner in all things, Ann, for over 40 years. They share three daughters, Meghan (Javier), Katie and Bridget, who all followed in his footsteps as graduates of Notre Dame and members of the swim team.  He is predeceased by his father, Donald M. Casey, Sr.  He is survived by his mother, Carole Casey; his siblings Lynn Casey, Gail (Rob) Slevin and Brian Casey; Ann’s parents; many brothers- and sisters- in- law; a host of nieces and nephews who adored him; and countless friends whose lives he touched.

Don studied finance at Notre Dame, graduating in 1982, followed by an MBA at the university in 1983.  He was captain of the swim team at ND, after honing his aquatic skills as a lifeguard at Sandy Hook on the Jersey shore.  

Don began a long and remarkable career at Johnson & Johnson, rising through the ranks, culminating as a World Wide Franchise Chairman and member of the Executive Committee. He became CEO of West Wireless Institute then the CEO, Medical Segment at Cardinal Health, finishing his active professional career as CEO at Dentsply Sirona.  Don went on to serve on numerous boards, including Avista Healthcare Partners and EBI (Electro-Biology, Inc.).  

As an alumnus of Notre Dame, he was honored to serve as a member of the Student Athlete Advisory Council and as President of the Monogram Club. Through these organizations and in other activities Don mentored thousands of student athletes whose lives he forever changed.

Don was an avid cyclist, swimmer, and runner, completing nine marathons, many century races and logging countless hours in the pool.  Endlessly curious, Don loved to travel and he and Ann spent the last few years embarking on adventures across the globe. However he was happiest at home in Florida, telling stories around the fire, pacing pool decks, or reminiscing about his favorite places, Ship Ahoy, Hilton Head Island, and South Bend.  

Don was boundlessly generous and made a lasting impact on everyone he met.  Beyond his countless accomplishments, Don was most proud of the life he built with Ann and his girls. The qualities he learned in life he instilled in his daughters, and was most proud of the people they became. The world will be a bit less bright without Don but we were all blessed to bask in the glow of his energy and indomitable spirit.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, March 9, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart at Notre Dame, with procession for inurnment at Cedar Grove Cemetery immediately following. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream video link can be found at: https://basilica.nd.edu/sacraments/funerals/funerals-livestream/

To honor Don's memory and passion, please consider making a donation to support all Notre Dame student athletes using this link: 

https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/CASEY

Palmer Funeral Home - Hickey Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.