Daniel Lee Hart

Franklin, NC - Daniel Lee Hart, died peacefully at his home on Friday, January 4, 2008, at the age of 74. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 50 years, Jane (nee Fox) Hart; daughters, Linda Lee (Mark) Piegore and Mary Jane (Neal) Weintraub; grandchildren Mark Jr., and Ashley Piegore, and Sylvia and Daniel Weintraub, sisters, Pat Dudick, Gerry Sullivan and Mary Hart, numerous nieces and nephews and his loving companion Bubba. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ruth and Raymond Hart and his sister Sally.

Dan graduated from St. Anthony's High School in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, in 1951, where he was a star football and basketball player. He accepted a scholarship to play football for the University of Florida Gators. Dan then served in the U.S. Army, rising to the rank of Master Sergeant, in the newly created Special Forces (Seventh Division, Green Berets). The miltary remained a lifelong passion for Dan, who considered making it a career. However, he returned to the University of Florida to finish his education, graduating in 1960. Dan worked in the Background Music Industry, where he served in executive positions with several companies. He was one of the 12 Limited Partners in the Muzak Corporation when he retired in 1997 to enjoy the mountains of North Carolina with his wife. Subsequently, Dan and Jane moved to Iowa City in 2005, and to Cincinnati in 2007, to be near family. Up until his death, Dan maintained an active role in the Background Music Industry, serving as President of the International Business Music Association since 1997. He also served as a volunteer at the Iowa City VA from 2005-2006.

Dan was an avid sportsman who loved fly fishing and football. He was a lifelong fan and supporter of Notre Dame University, GO IRISH! Dan had a terrific wit and befriended everyone he met. He was a loving and generous person who had a great sense of caring for his fellow man. Dan will be remembered fondly by the hundreds of family members and close friends whom he touched.

Memorial services will be held Wednesday, March 26 at 10:00 AM at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home. Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery.

An online condolence is available by visiting bryantgrantfuneralhome.com or by email.