“After having both a personal and professional relationship with Daniel over the last three years, I’ve been able to come to appreciate him as a pivotal role in my life, as well as those he’s come in contact with. As both a former student of mine and continuing friend, Daniel has exemplified to me what it means to be a strong-minded, kind-hearted man. Looking at the overabundance of ideals and character traits I can choose from, there are two that I would define as his finest qualities.
Having first built a friendship with Daniel, I can attest to his personality to being somewhat quirky, mildly spontaneous, and abundantly cheerful. Not once have I ever had a moment with Daniel where he wasn’t trying to put a smile on my face (and succeeding in it) by whatever means necessary. Unafraid to make himself the tail end of the occasional joke, Daniel knows that there isn’t a symptom, condition, or calamity that laughter and a smile cannot resolve. I often find myself looking back on our friendship and how his contagious joyfulness can spread like a California wildfire, and then being able to reciprocate that same feeling to others as I learned from him.
His second trait needs no cliche or exaggeration. Daniel is, as simply as I can put it, one of the hardest workers I have ever known. Once a goal is set, his job is to not only achieve it, but go above and beyond in expectations. As a music instructor for Daniel during his time in the drum corps activity, I watched a young man grow in physical and mental strength, building lifelong memories and friendships along the way. I have seen Daniel hit his personal physical limits and not only hurdle that barrier, but carry his friends along the way in their own path to growth. I have seen him bring together those who are fighting, form a smile on those who are upset, and be an inspiration to everyone who’s graced with his infectious humor.
No matter what, I can count on Daniel to be a friend at my side when I need it, and a voice for inspiration to those who ask.”
-Cooper Mannon