In loving memory ~
Dan, age 80 passed away peacefully at Victoria General Hospital after a short illness. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Frances in 2003. He is lovingly remembered by his sons, Troy (Kari) and Jason (Janis) and his grandson Justin.
Dan was a big man who lived a big life, but on many accounts chose to do this mostly on his own, with only a few very cherished friends.
He moved from Brantford Ontario to Vancouver Island BC as a young man, to find a place for his beloved wife Fran with young son in tow. Working at the Bamberton Cement Plant as a truck driver and then welder until the plant closed in 1980. Then on to the logging industry where he continued to grow his welding expertise. After many years shifting his considerable experience as a welder to the Victoria shipyards, where he helped fabricate many vessels that still circumnavigate our rugged coastlines and quiet harbors today. When not busy working he enjoyed dancing with mom (they were very good!), creating beautiful garden landscapes together on the property, and exploring locally to abroad until she passed.
Away from work he was a very creative man, designing and drafting the blueprints for our home on property that he and mom purchased on beautiful Cameron Taggart Road 47 years ago. I remember us working together on the property, falling trees, and clearing land to make a space eventually for the home that we would all build together with much help from friends. Very much an adventure for us that we will forever treasure.
We remember sitting for a break eating chocolate bars and drinking our cokes; maybe not the best choice of snacks for us growing kids but we all knew it was a treat not regularly had. We also knew that mom would be making us a hearty lunch, maybe grilled cheese with tomato soup, one of our favorites. Must also mention our many trips to Burnt Bridge in the summer, trying to catch crayfish while Simon & Garfunkel played in the background. Fond memories.
His interest in learning, reading and history and his dedication to archery never waned after Moms passing. A great many hardships were endured with her gone as we well knew but big Dan always persevered, willing to tackle the hardest jobs while making things work that seemed impossible to some. A very big part of dad's life was the Cobblestone. Not only did he appreciate the smiling faces and friendly conversations, but we also appreciated knowing that he had a place to go to connect with extended family and enjoy a wonderful meal.
Thank you all for being there for him to share his Love and Care. He was a man sometimes seemingly very alone but with a generous heart, he wanted to share.
There will be no service by his request.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallgardens.com
McCall Gardens Funeral and Cremation Services