Daniel Brian Cumming

Dan died suddenly of heart failure on November 30th, 2018, at the age of 73. He was in Negril, Jamaica preparing to run the 10k race of the Reggae Marathon, one of his favourite events. He was born in Vancouver to Jack and Lil Cumming and attended the University of BC (BAg, PhD) and the University of Guelph (MSc). After 20 years as a food scientist and administrator with Agriculture Canada Research Branch in Kentville, NS, Summerland, BC, Brussels, Belgium and Morden, MB, he spent 10 years in the private sector, helping to develop an innovative bio waste conversion system. After retiring he was keen to devote more time to his family, volunteer activities and his longstanding interest in running. He not only ran marathons, relays and everything in between, he also ran with his kids and grandkids, organized races and coached new runners. He once described the joy of running this way: 'It is getting to a free state of mind where you can let your inner self take over.'

Although he valued his roles as husband, father and grandfather above all else, he found time to be a mentor and adviser to many. He was a baker of gingerbread creations (every Christmas for 37 years), keen traveler (especially if there was a race involved), writer, genealogist, photographer and more.

He is survived by his loving family: his wife of 50 years, Judi; his daughters Danielle (Greg) and Janna (Jason); his son Cam; grandsons Charlie and Jonah; sisters-in-law Hope (Bill d. 2015) and Susan (Bob); brothers-in-law Bob (Wendy) and Jim (Marc); nieces Kristi (Tim) and Julie; nephews Ken (Melissa), Chris and Adam (Sarah), as well as extended family and treasured friends.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Dan’s life on Sunday, January 13, 1:00pm, at Victory Memorial Park Funeral Centre 14831 28 Avenue, Surrey, BC.

Terry was one of his great heroes so, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Terry Fox Foundation, [email protected]