Daniel Robert Gilmour

We are devastated to announce the sudden and unexpected death of Daniel Robert Gilmour at 38 years of age.

Daniel was born in Winkler, Manitoba to Penny and Gary Gilmour. He grew up there, attending Garden Valley Collegiate where he played badminton and performed in school plays. Upon graduation, he moved to Winnipeg, attending the University of Manitoba and Red River College, where he discovered his two greatest passions: acting and early childhood education.

While at university, Daniel took a part-time job at Royal School Daycare, and found his calling. He studied early childhood education at Red River College, returning to Royal School Daycare and shortly thereafter moving to Campus Children's Centre. His work migrated at the same time from school age to preschool, winding up with supervision of three rooms of two-year olds. Always ready to do whatever was needed, and able to relate well with children of any age, Dan was a favourite for many of his charges. Daniel formed many good friendships with his co-workers, with parents of the children attending, and, of course, with countless kids throughout the years.

While attending University of Manitoba, Daniel joined the Black Hole Theatre Company, initiating his lifelong passion for performing. Through productions at the Fringe Festival, Master Playwright Festival, Merlyn Productions, Winnipeg Mennonite Theatre, BS Comedy Players, and many others, Daniel built strong friendships with many in the Winnipeg theatre community. His easy stage presence and impeccable comedic timing made him a gifted and natural storyteller. Daniel was at his happiest when performing, and was grateful for the community and opportunity offered through local theatre.

Daniel was always true to himself, bringing his kindness, wit, and sense of humour to every situation, whether it be 2-year-old snack time, taking on the role of an ogre in a stage production of Puss in Boots, or playing Super Smash Brothers with his niece. Daniel always took the time to regale his co-workers, friends, and family with stories.

Daniel is survived by his parents Gary and Penny, sister Lisa (Neil), beloved niece Madelyn, sister Claire (Travis), extended family, and his found family of Early Childhood Educators and the Winnipeg theatre community.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you consider donating in Daniel's memory to either the Winnipeg Humane Society or RRC Polytech where contributions will be directed to support students in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Program.

The family invites all friends and family to join them for a traditional funeral service held for Daniel at Peace Lutheran Church at 350 Gilmore Ave on January 6 at 11 am as well as a Celebration of Life on January 6 at 2pm at the Caboto Centre, 1055 Wilkes Ave. Everyone is welcome to attend either or both.

In Daniel’s style, this will be a casual dress event and an opportunity to gather with food and drink and celebrate the impact Daniel had on our lives. There will be a short program and then in honour of Daniel’s love of performance, there will be an opportunity to share stories and memories with an open mic. All are welcome to participate in sharing.

We also welcome video or photo submissions in advance and we will be able to play some of those at the event. Please submit these to [email protected]