Daniel’s beautiful journey began on March 4, 1987 and came to an unexpected ending on November 20, 2013. He was a happy, energetic, and animated young man. He was a big brother to his sisters Kristen and Brianna and always watched over them.
He loved baseball and played from the age of five until he graduated high school. He enjoyed dancing, singing, and started his acting career at age 9. He also played football and swam during his high school years. He was a member of the National Honors Society in high school and graduated Cum Laude. He graduated Sum Cum Laude from St. Peter’s College with a degree in Philosophy in 2009. He joined “Argus Eyes” theater group and took on a leadership role as President. He loved to direct the shows and participate in them as well. He put on numerous plays, musicals and talent shows during his four years in the group. He loved to perform and made many friends while participating.
I chose the piece of cloth because it represented Daniel’s love of Australia where he went during an educational trip in 6th grade. He learned about the culture there and had an interest in the Aboriginal tribe the natives of Australia. He also took an educational trip during college to Greece and loved that country as well.
The four dogs represent the four pets Dan had growing up. He picked out his first dog Rusty in the shelter at the age of five. Then came Magnum PI followed by Cheyenne then Koda Bear. All the dogs were rescues from the pound. Dan believed every dog in a shelter should have a good home.
Finally, Dan’s idol Tom Brady had to be a part of the quilt. He loved the New England Patriots, especially Tom Brady. Dan could real off stats over the years and talked about football twenty-four seven with his friends. He loved fantasy football and was part of three leagues and Tom Brady was his quarterback for each of his teams. Sunday, all day and Monday night football days brought out house to life with the cheering and telling at the television.
We all miss Daniel’s smile, singing and his ability to make us laugh. He always said laughter is good for the soul. Although he is no longer with us, he will always be in our hearts. We choose to remember all the good times and we know he is watching over all of us now.
Thank you for being a great friend to your friends, a great brother to your sisters and the best son parents’ could ever hope for.