John (JD) Thomas DANIEL

John Thomas Daniel. Nickname JD
October 5 th 2023 death at home Saanichton, BC. Cremation October 12 th 2023
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of a loving father and friend, John Thomas Daniel, age 72.

John was born June 2 nd 1951 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. John was the only son in his family along with his four sisters Marlaina, Gale (deceased), Gloria, and Laura. John and his family moved from Winnipeg to Burnaby in 1963. John lives on through his two son’s Damien and Dorian. John spent over 25 years in service to the BC Liquor Board and Stores. In 2006 he retired and devoted to spend more time with his two sons. John wasn’t afraid to try anything; he loved adventure and being a free spirit. He was forthright, honest, and a man of integrity.

John enjoyed watching all sorts of movies, but he certainly had a sweet spot for action thriller films. He loved classical cars from the 1960’s to 1980’s; there was a program he would watch often that involved mechanical restoration car projects that would show the journey of a barnyard find to a road ready driving machine. He loved animals particularly dogs and cats. He enjoyed listening to The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Iggy Pop, and other rock and roll bands, particularly during summer nights. He could swim like a fish as his routine involved swimming almost on a daily basis; he made many friends at Panorama Recreation Centre. Lastly, John loved going out on drives and spending time in nature in the greater parts of Victoria.

One of Dorian’s fondest memories:
At a young age my dad was teaching me how to ride a bicycle for the first time. I started with training wheels but then with the aid and courage from dad, I decided to take the training wheels off. It was daunting but I knew it was time. Dad gave me a slight push to get started but I crashed immediately. Dad encouraged me to get back up and try again. After several times of falling and with a little road rash on my elbows I finally managed to get balanced and rode my bike in the neighbourhood cul-de-sac with success. It was electrifying and many smiles were had that day.

What I love the most of my dad was he was a straight-shooter and told it like it is with honesty and care. He instilled me the values to give assistance and kindness wherever needed, and do what you know to be right.

One of Damien’s fondest memories:
Dad taught Dorian and I how to swim at a young age. It was comfortable, joyous and a fulfilling experience. He had us start with wearing little life jackets and used larger foam floaters as a support. He would guide us through the swimming techniques gently and made everything easy and fun. It wouldn’t be long before Dorian and I would swim gracefully like a fish and go to the recreation centre every Sunday.

Dad had a loving heart, was always amiable, compassionate towards others, and did his very best to ensure my brother and I were well provided for. We shared countless jovial moments with family and friends, our home was warm, welcoming and Dad was an exemplary host to everyone we knew. As well, during the times Dorian or I had felt frustrated, saddened, he was right there to support us with his cheerfulness and optimism. He’d give us hugs, voice comforting words; we’d have laughs and things worked out well. Wholeheartedly, our special moments with Dad are remembered with joy and deeply cherished with great admiration and love.

A memory from both Damien and Dorian:
When we were kids and growing up we would enjoy the outdoors playing catch with the football, or flying kites on windier days. When the leaves and season started to change, after some time raking and piling up leaves around the home, Dad would put us in the wheelbarrow and he’d run with it for a time, like it was a little adventure for us. Then we would jump onto the piled leaves to conclude the fun! It was memorable, exciting, filled with joy and laughter for all of us.

The Daniel family wishes to say thank you to Dr. Asplin and Dr. Pai for their incredible aid, compassionate understanding, and expertise that helped guide John over the last 10 years. Additionally, many thanks to the staff, nurses, and physicians at Saanich Peninsula Hospital and Royal Jubilee Hospital’s Liver Care Clinic for their kindness, support, treatments and loving care for John.