April 9, 1942 – November 21, 2020
at the age of 78 years
Sadly, after a long battle with cancer, Dan McGrath passed away at home on November 21, 2020 with his wife Janice at his side. He will be dearly remembered by his family and friends.
He is survived by his wife Janice, son Marc, daughter Melissa, his grandchildren, brothers Larry, Wayne and sister Carole.
Dan was born in Dodsland, Saskatchewan on April 9, 1942. He received his degree in Education from the University of Saskatchewan and Alberta. His teaching career was short, as he acquired a bug for flying. He obtained his commercial flying licence, then joined the Canadian Air Force to augment his flying hours required to join an airline. He enjoyed a long career with Air Canada retiring as a Captain.
Dan moved to the Shuswap area in the early 90’s, enjoyed golfing with his buddies and was active in the men’s league at the SLE golf course. He served as president one year and managed the “skins” pot for years. May he now be winging his way to a better place.
Special thanks to Dr. Adriaan Louw and the Interior Home Health for the care they provided for Dan.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Dan was one of the most straight forward men I have ever known.. as well he had a hell of a sense of humour..4 of us, Dan Jim Curran, Perry Walker and myself went on a golf holiday to California in the early nineties.. it was the most fun I have ever had on a golf trip and I have had many.. Dan’s snoring was so bad that his room mate was forced to sleep in the bathroom and as well he had a very serious bid to make on his next choice of aircraft.. after a few drams of scotch he made his choice.. but my favourite recall of that trip was when on the third and last day of our trip his partner was having an extremely difficult time putting on a par three green near the end of the course.. Dan after watching his partner’s problem’s said “Jim pick the ball up, you’re making a god dammned fool of yourself.. we all (except Jim) howled with laughter..Daniel was, as JC was great with the one liners..RIP my friend
With great sadness I learned of Dan’s loss last Saturday. He was a great friend and a kind person who was quick to give to whomever was in need.
Together we did everything we were able to liven up the lives of our fellow Shuswapeans. I know too much to relay the details of the most memorable stories. But there were many. Suffice it to say I have every confidence the “Pilot’s Bar in the Sky” is now rolling with even greater myrth now that Dan is there.
My sincere condolences go out to Janice, Mark, and Melissa as well as their families.
His loss has left a deep void.
I hoist a wee dram in your honour, my friend.
You will be missed Dan. Thank you for your hilarious stories and your giving spirit. You are free from pain, Rest In Peace.
So sorry to hear of Dan’s passing. He was a good family friend. It was so good to see him and catch up every summer. Our condolences go out to Janice, Marc & Melissa and their families.