Daniel K. “Dan” Dillon

Donations can be made in Dan’s honor to support the Dan Dillon Fund for Youth Golf by clicking the link below. Please note Dan Dillon in the Memorials & Tributes section of the donation form.

“I believe Dan would be honored and humbled by the creation of a fund in his name. He had an extraordinary gift for investing in people of all backgrounds, interests, and walks of life.  Dan made everyone feel seen and valued. He always chose to do what was right—not just for the Club, but in every corner of his life. What a meaningful tribute for future recipients to be recognized through his legacy.”  -Malia Lyle, Olympic Club President

With great sadness, we share with you the news of the passing of Dan Dillon on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at the age of 64.  A great friend of the Foundation, Dan was the consummate husband, Olympian, Guardsman, businessman and civic leader.  

Daniel K. "Dan" Dillon was born in North Carolina on April 28, 1961 and raised in Kentucky.  As a child, he had a condition which afflicted his right hip, causing him to use a wheelchair and crutches during his early years.  Through treatment and hard work, Dan became able to walk as his hip strengthened.  It was during this time that he developed a passion for golf.  Dan ultimately attended the University of North Carolina, Charlotte on a golf scholarship and graduated magna cum laude in 1983 with a degree in political science.

He became interested in politics while growing up in Kentucky and it stayed with him for the rest of his life.  While at UNC Charlotte, Dan met Congressman Alex Mcmillan, who offered him a job in his congressional office in Washington, D.C. just two days after graduation.  

When he came to San Francisco to attend the 1984 Democratic National Convention, Dan fell in love with The City and decided to make it his home.  Through the great Ed Moose, he was introduced to Assemblyman Lou Papan.  His work for Assemblyman Papan laid the foundation for a successful career in political lobbying and consulting. 

25 years ago, Dan met his future business partner, Chris Gruwell, with whom he developed a close business and personal relationship that lasted for decades. Dan specialized in issues related to permitting, building regulations, and major events. He consulted for the PGA Tour and the USGA and served as General Chairman for the 2020 PGA Championship at Harding Park. 

Dan served as president of the Olympic Club in 2017, which he described as "the biggest thrill" of his life.  A man of great humility and humor, Dan would like to say that "replacing the hair tonic in the men's locker room" was his most noteworthy accomplishment. That was far from true, though, as he accomplished many great things during his tenure, including bringing both the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup to San Francisco.  

In 2024, Dan was named a “Kentucky Colonel” by the state governor in recognition for the work he did for at-risk children through his various charitable interests. It is the highest honor awarded to a Kentuckian. An active Guardsman, Dan was elected to the Guardsmen Hall of Fame in 2024.  He is survived by his wonderful wife, Cara, who says that Dan "always considered himself to be a very lucky man.  Because he was always so fortunate to have the help of many kind people, he took great pride in connecting people and helping those who came his way."  

In an interview with David Meltzer in 2017, Dan was asked about the personality traits that made him so successful.  Dan first responded, "it was certainly not my height or my hairdo," and then added that people can find success "if you have faith in yourself and you believe beyond the horizons that are presented to you."

Amongst Dan's belongings, Cara found these words: "I believe, truly, that if you treat people right, the world opens up.  Maybe that's the secret.  Not talent, not timing, just treating people with decency."

Contributions made to The Olympic Club Foundation in memory of Dan Dillon will be used to establish The Dan Dillon Fund for Youth Golf Programs in the San Francisco Bay Area.  

Please keep Dan and Cara in your thoughts and prayers.