Dr. Daniel M. Lomba, Jr., of Marion, MA, passed away on February 8, 2025, at the age of 63 after a courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease).
Dan was a man of passion—devoted to his family, his music, and his pursuit of knowledge. Clever, creative, and unafraid of hard work, he had a fiery spirit and a strong moral compass. He never shied away from conflict but had a way of bringing people together. Even as his body weakened, his spirit remained unbreakable.
Dan grew up on Rezendes Terrace, surrounded by family. As a young man, he developed a deep love for music and became a skilled bassist. He was drawn to artists like Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Wonder, Parliament-Funkadelic, Elton John, The Beatles, Sly & The Family Stone, and Michael Jackson—music with both groove and message. Over the years, he played in countless bands, many with his Uncle Zack. He was a founding member of Tomboy, Beluga Band, Soul on the Edge, and Funk Side Up. Throughout his career, he collaborated with numerous musicians, including Jammin: A Tribute to Bob Marley, Rock 4 Xmas, and John Butcher. Even as his disease made playing more difficult, he adapted through technology, always finding ways to create and compose.
A lifelong scholar, Dan earned his PhD in Economics from Northeastern University and spent decades as a professor, teaching at Harvard University, UMass Dartmouth, Massasoit Community College, and Bridgewater State University, where he was a tenured faculty member and he was Chair of the Economics Department. Known for his unconventional teaching methods and fearless critiques of economic and racial injustice, he pushed his students to think critically and challenge systemic oppression. His community group, Oppressed in the West, sparked vital conversations on inequality and the structures that uphold it.
Dan is survived by his mother, Mary Lomba; his wife, Ana Lomba; his children, Sandro Couto (wife Kayla), Sara Rasmussen (husband Matthew), Taylor Travassos-Lomba, Trevor Travassos-Lomba, and Lucas Travassos-Lomba; and his granddaughters, Corinne Ferreira and Hazel Rasmussen, who lovingly knew him as “Papa.” He is also survived by his brother, Manuoel Lomba; his niece, Faith Lomba (son Daniel); and his nephew, Andy Lomba (daughter Audrie). He was predeceased by his father, Daniel Lomba.
Dan was also fortunate to have the support and friendship of Carmella Ciampa, who spent a great deal of time with him in his later years. Her kindness and companionship brought comfort and joy during difficult times.
In the symphony of life, Dan was both a devoted listener and a powerful musician. He observed the world, picked up his bass, and played into the groove—moving people, challenging minds, and leaving behind a lasting legacy of love, music, and justice.
Visiting hours are from 4 to 7 pm on Thursday, February 13, 2025 at Chapman Funerals & Cremations – Wareham, 2599 Cranberry Hwy., Wareham.
His funeral will be held at 9:00 am on Friday, February 14, 2025 from the funeral home, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 am in St. Patrick’s Church, 94 High St., Wareham.
For directions or to leave a message of condolence, visit: www.chapmanfuneral.com.
