As we begin this new year, our Rotary family carries a deep sadness. Instead of stepping forward in to the new year with the usual excitement and fresh energy, we are moving gently, together, as we grieve the loss of someone we loved so much—our dear friend Dan Gallant.
Dan’s passing has left an empty seat at our table and a quiet space in our hearts. His passion was unmistakable. Whether he was leading a project, lending his time, or lifting someone’s spirits with his kindness, Dan embodied the very best of what it means to be a Rotarian. He didn’t just serve—he cared. He didn’t just show up—he inspired. And he didn’t just talk about making a difference—he lived it.
But even in this moment of sadness, we can look to the example he set. Dan showed us how powerful kindness can be—how far compassion can reach—how meaningful service becomes when done with heart. We miss him. We honour him. And together, as a Rotary family, we move into this new year holding both our sorrow and our gratitude.
Our love and condolences go out to Marion, his wife of over 50 years, his two sons Darcy & Shaun, and his grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many family members.
Our Guests at our meeting of Jan.7/26: AG Maureen Boyd, Past DG Denis Boyd, Carmen Kjerside, and Dr. Yasher Taheri-Keramati
Teams Guests: Yvonne Berrisford, Andy Berrisford
Our Wednesday morning meeting was held in memory of Dan. Members of our club each shared their memories of Dan and how he touched their lives.
Dr. Yahar Taheri – Keramati was one of our special guests this morning. Over 15 years ago the Rotary Club of Coquitlam club nominated him as an Ambassadorial Scholar, through a program now replaced by Rotary Global Grants. This scholarship took Yashar to South Africa for his Masters degree, a location that involved gangs, police, and corruption. Yashar then pursued his life goal of providing surgery for those most in need by studying medicine in Cuba and later acting as Chief of Surgery in the same country in the most depressing conditions imaginable. His ongoing work was and continues to focus on humanitarian aid in impoverished and war-affected regions through the Canadian charity he founded, Peace and Love International, and in partnership with Rotary World Help. Yashar spends time trying to get supplies through corrupt systems and with Rotary World Help is making an impact with an improvised systems of distribution. Yashar worked with Dan Gallant to ship containers to South Africa and Cuba and formed a strong friendship with him.
And Thank you to President Alison for leading this special meeting to honour our Dan; the music that you selected and the many pictures of Dan that you shared were all truly heartfelt and touching.
Next week's speaker: Jennifer McKinnon, CEO, Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce