My grandfather was an amazing man. He was a pilot, an air traffic controller, a mathematician, a first grade rugby player, an excellent golfer, a father of six and grandfather of eighteen.

"He was a fiercely independent man, very proud, a man of his generation. Dan never told us he loved us, but did not need to. It has only been since we ourselves have had families that we have truly appreciated the hard work and sacrifice that, for Dad, replaced those words.

Dad was a natural leader, but often did not seek it. Rather his strength of character demanded it. In a way he was a man of contradictions - serious, yet seemingly the larrikin; caring, but not affectionate; involved, but not interested in gossip; quiet, yet gregarious; private, but very much the storyteller; talented, but humble.

As a father, the responsibility he felt to provide for his family outweighed his own needs, the consequently, Dad gave up a lot. He enjoyed the company of others but sharing the moment did not necessarily mean sharing the conversation, and he could be content to sit and just 'be'. A simple question, however, would be all that was needed. A half smile, a glint in the eye, and he was off, regaling us as only he could.

A good parent is able to take the experiences, memories and joy of their own childhood, discard a bit, change other bits, and hopefully borrow most. We are because of you Dad, and as such, so are our own kids. Thank you hardly seems adequate"

- An excerpt from my grandpa's eulogy, by my uncle Paul.