Daniel Robert Donaghy

Incredible, one of a kind son of Maja and Jamie, best big brother to Jessica (Ben), Jacob and Jenny. Daniel passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on October 12, 2023, at the young age of 37.  Dan will be missed, more than words can say, by his son Finn, his wife Laura, and his step children Jordynn, Addysonn and Hudsonn, and Laura’s family.  Dida (grandfather) is greatly saddened along with his aunts, uncles, nieces, nephew and cousins, and his Mimi and Baba.  Predeceased by his father Bob  and his Baka (grandmother) as well as his beloved dog Kira.

Dan’s room-lighting smile and wild sense of humor made his presence a delight in any situation. He had the kindest, gentlest soul, gave the most amazing hugs and the best cuddles. Dan lived life wide open and never missed an opportunity for fun or to be with people he cared about.  Dan’s music interests ranged from Skeeter Davis to Pantera to Rap and Classic Rock.  You just never knew what was going to come out of his mouth with his random vocabulary, but you could guarantee that it wouldn’t be appropriate for most ears.  Dan was very intelligent and interesting individual!  He was an athlete and an honour roll student when he went back to school as an adult and completed two diplomas at Sir Sandford Fleming college in Peterborough ON.

Dan’s trademark was his laugh and teasing and tormenting his loved ones.  He loved his dogs (Ripley and Mac) and all animals, the great outdoors and he always loved a great view in nature.  He loved going to Brooks Falls, evening drives, campfires and swimming even with sharks!  He loved taking photos and doing the commentary on the videos.  He was always a big kid at heart. He was infatuated with sharks since he was a little boy, wicked thunderstorms, good food, and he was a great cook himself!  Dan lived life to the fullest without looking back. Dan’s phone calls were always full of enthusiasm.  He had such a loud voice to!  He never ran out of things to say, loved to talk, and could talk your ear off for hours.

Dan will be missed by all who knew him, valued his friendships and his ‘shenanigans‘.  Dan loved being a father to Finn who was his best friend and ‘little man’.   His step kids absolutely adored Dan and they adore Finn.  Dan was a hero to these children and they are going to miss him tremendously.

Raise a little hell in Heaven Daddy Dan!

Our families will be hosting a Celebration of Life in Ottawa, Ontario on November 5, 2023.   Please join us to share your stories about our beloved Dan the Man.  Further details will be shared on social media.   Thank you for all your support and out-pouring thoughtfulness you have already provided to all of us.