Armand Dann

Armand Dann was a philanthropist, athlete, and family man who his brother Donnie recalls as the “sweetest, nicest person anyone could know. To think that I knew him for my whole life… wow, how lucky can a guy be?”

Dann died at age 95 on January 29.

A Chicago native, Dann met his wife Elaine at a synagogue social event as a young boy. He loved her deeply throughout his life.

He was a competitive athlete in high school and attended the University of Illinois before serving in Europe in World War II as a medic and prison camp director. After college, Dann returned to Chicago and joined his brothers in the family insurance business, Dann Brothers.

Dann carried his passion for athletics well into his 90s, whether running at the gym, playing tennis, or golfing with his favorite 100-year-old putter. He loved traveling and spending time in nature, including scuba diving in the Red Sea and Galapagos. His vigorous schedule, family members said, kept caregivers on their toes, and he kept his mind sharp with novels and card games.

“He bought me my first tennis racquet and golf clubs and was the warmest, kindest and fiercest athletic partner you could imagine,” said Dann’s grandson Brian Taylor. “Most of all, the whole family felt his tremendous love and demonstrated how to live a meaningful life.”

In addition to caring deeply for his family, Dann was a generous supporter of JUF and Chicago’s Jewish community. “Even in his later years, Armand always had time to think and care about the Jewish people,” said Dr. Steven B. Nasatir, JUF Executive Vice Chairman.

His daughter Susan Dann Taylor described him as a “generous man that people admired.” Between his thoughtfulness, warmth, and kindness, “he was just a gift himself.”

Dann had three children, five grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. He was also loved by his two brothers and many nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends.