As a youngster, I attended Sarsfield School, where bilingual education, at the time, consisted of Ukrainian and English courses. Living across the street from Prosvita, I spent most of my free time involved in the organized activities such as dance classes, choir, and drama.

In 1931, my family moved to Lachine where we joined the Ukrainian community. At a time when there was no Ukrainian Catholic Church in Lachine, the mass was celebrated in the gymnasium of the French school. I had the pleasure of serving as an alter boy for Father Josaphat Jean and have fond memories of his kindness and generosity. At the Lachine Prosvita, I danced with the Avramenko Dance Ensemble and later became an assistant instructor. At an early age I started working at the golf course as a caddy, to help with family obligations. From there my passion for golf evolved and became my pastime for decades to come.

My involvement in the Ukrainian community was put on hold during World War II while I served in the Canadian Army until 1946.

In 1943 I married Anna Kowal and was later blessed with a daughter, Patricia.
Working side by side, my wife and I opened our own business "Dan's Lamp Specialties" where we electrified antiques and restored china. The best part of my job was working at my own pace and spending time meeting and socializing with so many new people.

After many years of involvement in the Ukrainian Community we became active parishioners in the Holy Ghost Parish, where I joined the Parish Committee in 1962. This marked the beginning of my active roles in major organizations, some of which include:
o President of the Holy Ghost Parish Committee in 1967 - held for 32 years and now an honorary President
o On the Board of Directors for Father Josaphat Jean Foundation and President for one year
o Member of the Executive Committee of the Canadian Ukrainian Congress (KYK), Montreal branch
o Member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Mazeppa Branch #183 and was President or 3 years
o Member of the Executive Committee of the Ukrainian Canadian Veteran's Association, based in Winnipeg
o Member of the Committee and volunteer for the Ukrainian Social Services, Entraide Ukrainienne de Montreal Inc.
o Member of the Quebec Ukrainian Amateur Golf Association and was president for a number of years

Following by-pass surgery in 2003, I was forced to slow down and was no longer able to contribute as much time to the various organizations. I now spend more time with my devoted wife of 64 years, my daughter Patricia, my son-in-law Gerry Nahorniak, my 3 granddaughters Krystyna, Tamara and Tanya, and my great granddaughter Rory. I am grateful that God has blessed me with a rewarding life and wonderful family that I cherish.

I am happy and proud to have been involved with the Father Josaphat Jean Foundation over the years. The financial aid has given new generations of young adults the opportunity to continue their education and follow their dreams.