Daniel Edward Francis Ourada
(Written by Daniel’s mom and read at his memorial prayer service at SMSU, Jan. 10th of 2002)
Every now and again someone really special touches your life in a way that leaves you with the feeling that you have been forever blessed. My family was touched in just that way. On May 24, 1980, Daniel, 7# 5 oz. was born into our family and was baptized as a child of God. He was a brown eyed little wonder, he was a 
playmate for big sister Andrea age 16 months. Seemed they were inseparable and always best of friends. At the age of 5 years Daniel entered kindergarten and thus began his education, he was always an inquisitive child, he had the most charming big brown eyes and enduring smile. There was always something for Daniel to challenge his big sister with like the biggest sand castle, best peanut butter and jelly sandwich, fastest trike ride down the hill, funniest cereal commercial or climbing the crooked tree in the front yard or longest bareback ride on a calf.
From the very beginning Daniel had a soft spot and a kind nature about him when it came to farm animals or any of God’s creatures for that matter. Many were the times that he would sneak a stray kitten, baby rabbit, turtle or baby bird into the house and try to persuade mom to share milk and help this poor little baby to survive and to keep warm. There were countless duck, pheasant, geese, chicken and even wild bird eggs that were incubated by Daniel and released back into the wild. I can’t remember how many times he and I would take a stick and gather all the bugs that had been smooched on the windshield to feed the baby birds, how disgusting, but as he told me “mom that is what this baby bird eats”. He would tend the animals just as Jesus tended His flock, he was so gentle, patient and kind. Many baby calves were brought into this world by Daniel and his gentle hands, he would bottle feed them and brush them till they shined and if by chance there was one fallen sick he would be first to notice and together with his dad they would nurse it back to health. He was just amazing with his insight and patience.
Daniel loved the outdoors and to hunt with his dad and brothers Brandon, 
Michael and big sister Annie. His last pheasant hunting season, Dominic age 5 years had the pleasure of hunting with big brother. Daniel was also a patient brother and took the time for a 5 year olds many, many questions. Believe me, Dominic can talk non stop for hours, just ask anyone in our family who has taken him on a road trip. Dominic treasures that last hunting trip with Daniel, he remembers having to take the car, because the camo truck would have scared all the pheasants away cuz it was so loud. He remembers sitting in the tall grass just watching the birds and asking Daniel lots of things and learning about nature.
Some of Daniel’s favorite things to do included family camping trips, trip to both coasts to swim in the oceans, water skiing, snow skiing, fishing at Lake of the Woods, square baling hay and straw, and hunting in the woods by Uncle Mike’s in Northern Mn. Our family has done a lot together and will continue to carry on our tradition of sharing time together. That is going to be the hardest for us: to now do these things without Daniel along. I know that he will always be here in spirit, but it is just not the same as having his smile and twinkling eyes before me.
Wrestling has been something Daniel has done since he was 5 years old. Terry taught him his first takedown and pinning hold and to always keep your head up , but more important that winning was to be a good sport, when the match is over you shake hands and walk off the mat with your head held high, doesn’t matter if you win or lose. Daniel wrestled for 16 years, Terry and I attended most every match. He always wanted us to be there and cheer him and his team on. Something else that he did was to always find us in the stands and come and talk with us before and after his match. This year (2002) he had set a goal of making it to Nationals as an individual competitor. Daniel liked to challenge himself (something he learned from his big sister Andrea). I know in my heart that Daniel is wrestling the best match of his life right now in Heaven and we all know that Coach Jesus is right there by his side encouraging Daniel to give it his best shot. Daniel, you made it to the top: YOU are number 1 in all our hearts. You are the Champion!
Like Matt Weerts said: “If you get it right, you get to leave early”, and without a doubt, I too feel that Daniel got it right! I see those same traits in sons Brandon and Michael also, several days after Daniels death, Brandon put on his Wabasso Rabbits wrestling singlet and walked determined onto the mat at the “Dam Site” wrestling tourney in Granite Falls, I can’t remember how he did, but I remember cheering him on and being so very proud of him. That took a lot of guts and heart to do what Brandon did. That is what my family does, always to step up to the plate and do what is right and for that I am proud. We stand strong and united, always will.
To loose a child is by far the hardest thing I have ever had to endure. Daniel was no longer a child, he was a man, a man of strength, integrity and pure love. Each day brings a new challenge of having to go on without him. I am not sure how to do this, but with the grace of God and the help of family and friends we will stand strong in our faith.
Each and everyone of you that has touched his life is the better for it. The outpouring of people at his prayer service and mass at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Wabasso was over-whelming (over 2000) attended on thqt cold, blustery day. We were amazed that our son, the quiet gentle man that he was could touch so many lives so positively and deeply. God’s love continues to shine on us through Daniel’s memory. That is the power of faith and love.
Since December 28, 2001, the day that Daniel entered the gates of Heaven, the day that he became our “Angel Among Us”, our lives have changed tremendously. What do we have to do to get ready for the day that we will meet our God? Are you Ready? Is your faith where it needs to be? Do you Pray? Did you tell your family that you love them today? Did you call your mom just to say “I love you Mom”? Did you hug your dad the last time you were with him? Are you making memories?
Until we meet again Daniel, I love you and promise to try to keep my head up, if I stumble will you be there to catch me? I promise to pray for you, with you and to you! God bless you and keep you. Please be my angel in heaven and surround me with love everlasting…I miss you deeply!……….Mom
There are so many wonderful memories of Daniel; there really isn’t a way to pick just one, or even two or three. I will never forget sitting in the backyard at 4th St. enjoying some drinks, a fire and either bocce ball or our all time favorite croquet. Singing “Back at One” together at Justin and Mandy Bouwman’s wedding. The road trips to the cities to see the doctor, oh the things I learned… But most of all I will 
never forget his passion, and the love that followed him wherever he seemed to go. Daniel seemed to have this uncanny knack of knowing when someone needed to be “picked up”. On most days he would come in for treatment on his shoulder and what was suppose to be a half hour appointment typically lasted and hour or more, we’d just so caught up in talking. That fall was a struggle for me at work, and on those hard days, when I wanted to walk out the door and quit, I would turn around and there he was with that huge grin, and a big bear hug. He wouldn’t let go until he got me to laugh. He always knew, it was such an amazing thing, a gift I know that God blessed him with. I’d say that I miss those hugs and smiles, but I don’t have too, I still get them. Maybe not in the same way, but I feel his spirit always and I love having such a great angel working on my side.
-Patty Erickson
*Brent & The Banana Cream Pie*
Why the Banana Cream Pie?
The following story was shared by Brent, Freshman year dorm roommate at SSU ’98-‘99
He sent this letter to the Ourada family after Dan died with a huge banana cream pie.
The reason for leaving the Banana Cream Pie is best explained through a short story. A story of how Dan and his family have touched other’s lives through the compassion and the warmth of their own hearts.
Three and a half years ago I received a letter from SSU notifying me of who my roommate for my freshman year of college would be. I wondered who this guy was and where exactly he was coming from. I continued reading the letter and noticed that the address of this guy was EXACTLY the same as my own, except for the city. Lucan…”where the heck is Lucan?” I asked my mom. Little did I know that address was the first of many things that we would have in common.
Well, I tucked that letter away for a few weeks and finally orientation was upon us, mom told me I better be giving Dan a call to find out what each of us was going to bring to our elaborate SSU dorm room. I put off calling Dan until I finally got the nerve up to get it done. I was scared about heading to school as well as calling Dan.
When I talked to Dan that first time over the phone, I knew that the next nine months were not going to be an eternity, instead it was going to feel like home. When we spoke, not only was Dan extremely helpful and warming, but his entire family invited me, a complete stranger into their home. You see after talking with Dan and his mother and finding out that he lived directly on the path that I drive to go to school, they invited me to stop by to eat supper. I remember Dan telling me to stop for supper on my way to school because his mom said I was supposed to! I was shocked because I didn’t know these people and they didn’t know me, however at the same moment, I knew the next few months living with Dan would go smoothly.
Well, I showed up at Dan’s house and EVERYBODY was there! How could I tell? Because there were a lot of vehicles out front. I was totally freaking because I hardly knew Dan and not yet met anyone else from his family. But when I was greeted and warmly welcomed into the house by everyone, I realized with all the cousins running around, aunts, uncles, and grandma Marcia…it was much like my own family. When I was introduced to Dan and everyone else, Dan’s mom and grandma insisted that I have something to eat. I felt bad because I showed up late and everyone was done eating but, like I said, they insisted that I eat something and that something ended up to be a huge slice of Banana Cream Pie. It was great: probably the best that I have ever eaten…maybe it was so good because I was in a place just like my own home.
From that day on, EVERY time I pass by Dan’s house I honk my car horn, always wondering …if anyone heard me, if I woke anyone up, or if they wonder who the heck is honking. I now know that “Dan the man from Lucan” will forever hear me honk and will know who exactly it is every time I go past his families home.
I once heard a story of how a priest told his congregation a story about a person being buried with a fork in their hand. Everyone wondered why this person was buried with a fork in his hand. The priest told his congregation that death is like a meal, with the dessert being served last. When your dishes are cleared from the table, you hang onto your fork because, “the best is yet to come” even though Dan accomplished a lot by touching many people with kindness and laughs, for him…”the best is yet to come.”
God rest your soul, Dan
Brent
Freshman year roommate at SSU, 1998-1999
*Memories of Grandma Ourada*
I loved Daniel- he would come to see me quite often. He'd tell me how his school was going and what he dreamed of doing after college. He was such a nice 
quiet young man- always had a big hug for grandma. He was so happy at the Christmas "get together at grandma's house." The cousins were playing cards and visiting, they all got along together so well. Daniel had such an easy going way about him- seemed like he loved everybody- I never heard him complain about anybody or anything ever. I'm looking forward to seeing him again and getting another big hug someday.
*Memories of the Mustangs 2002*
Life for each of us occurs in stages: Dan continued to grow as an individual and crossed the paths with many others along the way. His journey may have stopped abruptly, but be aware of how many special connections he made with us all. This is a compilation of memories and reflections from those closest to Dan during his final stage, in what we will continue to call, Life…
Matt~ Being around Dan everyday, getting to know his outgoing personality, getting his advice when I was having troubles, and laughing with him after something funny happened or was said-it was an honor to have the chance to get to know him.
Coach Sterner~ to love and then be loved in return, that is the way I know Dan. His smile was infectious and could make me realize the joy in every day. I am so proud of Dan and all that he had become. I love you Dan.
Gus~ Dano was the man who knew what you needed to exactly hear at specifically the right time. We were always on the same page with each other, and respected each other’s perspectives. Because of that , we enjoyed many things centered around the gift of trust.
Patty~ Dano is more than just an athlete I took care o f and he is more than my friend. He is a brother that I never had, he always took care of me. I miss him so much and I will always love him. “Love and Friendship is missing someone when you’re apart, but somehow feeling warm inside because they’re close in heart.” I will always have Dan with me in my heart. I feel blessed to have him as my guardian angel.
Jered~ Dan was always there to give you a smile. He embodied every good quality that is part of being a true friend!
Matt~ I didn’t know Dan the longest, but he made a large impact on me. He was the first one to be on the side of the mat when I wrestled and he had a big grin when I came off. That is the Dan I will remember, the cheerful person who was there for all this teammates. He was a true Mustang who followed the creed and lived by the morals and ideas that we followed. He never gave up. He was a great friend, teammate, and a role model and we all will miss his smile.
Justin~ Dan was a person that you could count on for anything. He was what I would call a true friend.
Aldon~ I really got to know Dan these past few month, he always knew how to put a smile on your face. He was one of the most thoughtful and caring people I’ve ever met and will be greatly missed .
Drew~ “what Dan meant to me!” He meant a friendly smile whenever –whatever. Taking his time to make sure a friend was happy before he left them.
Josh~ what Dan meant-Dan was the most kind hearted person I knew. No matter what was going on, he always had a smile on his face and got everyone else to smile. He liked and was liked by everyone. That is what I believe a great person and true friend is.
Keefer~ Dan was one of the greatest guys I know. He was always positive and had a great attitude. I really looked up to him and will miss him greatly.
Jen~ I will always remember sitting in the living room, listening to Dan singing with Kenny Chesney. His face would just glow when he sang.
Cody~ I have known Dan for almost four years now and there was no other person that could brighten up your day and make you smile like Dan. Dan was one of the Greatest Guys that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing…
Dusty~In memory of Dan…he was not just a teammate: but the best o f friends. When I think of Dan, I think of all the good times because that’s what Dan would want! I will remember the good times. The times on the mat: the times off the mat. And I will always remember that big old smile!
Tesch ~ Dando, in the years I lived with you, you became a part of my family, as I am yours. We became a very tight and intricate part of each other’s lives…from going to Wal-Mart together or shopping for groceries: going out and having a good time with the boys or simply sitting watching ”Friends” on Thursday nights. You made my life whole. Without you I can barely go grocery shopping, but with you I could go out looking for a PlayStation 2 game and come home with a 30 inch TV. I pictured all of us to be like Bert & Ernie. We would live together and never grow old. Circumstances have changed, you left us in a very sudden manner, but you will always be with us. Your memory is too strong. There is a piece of my heart that will always be there, because of you. I will take that with me where ever I go, you will always be a part of me. You’re an awesome teammate, friend, and roommate. I will love you forever.
Bart~when Dan was around you were guaranteed to have a good time. This was one of his many unique qualities. I’ll never forget the Renaissance trips and they’ll never be the same with you buddy! Love ya Dan-O!
Kyle~ Dan was a person who could light up a room. When I was down in the dumps he always had a comment to cheer me up. He was a good person and a good wrestler. I will miss you Dan.
Matt W. ~ Dan exuded a kindness that I will never see in a friend again. A wise man once told me “If you get it right, you get to leave early” I would say without a doubt that applies here.
Steve & Kim~ Teammate, family man and friend, we will always remember you Dano!
Jared~ Where do I start? We met as rivals when we were in high school. We hated the Rabbits as you did the Mighty Falcons. Our path never crossed on the mat, but all for a reason, a good reason, the beginning of our friendship. 
The first night at SSU I remember saying, I’m not calling Ourada up , he fricken hates me. But out of cockiness, I invited you over and from that moment on, the storybook begin….
I can’t begin to go into detail about the times we’ve shared, hugs that we embraced in or even the joys and tears that we encountered on our journey together on this earth. To put it simple, Dando, you are my classmate…my teammate…my practice/drill partner…my roommate and most of all, my best friend.
Dando, I believe that you were the one person sent to me by God to make my life complete. You are my soul mate of eternal friendship. You leaving me has taken a piece of my heart that can never be filled until we meet again.
I just can’t believe that you are gone. We had our whole lives ahead of us. Dammit, we mad a pact to stay together forever. Remember how we planned our future out? We were going to live in the same community, along with Gustavo, and start the best fitness center that anyone had ever seen. Dan, you were the best man in my wedding.
I could always bank on you being there for me whether I was wrong or right, up or down, we understood each other. We came from the same kind of family, and that’s why you were such a happy and caring person.
Daniel, whenever I look around, I will always be searching for you. Your smile can bring clear skies to any forecast. I will carry your memory in the proudest manner possible . Just promise to be my angel when I am weak and guide me when I am lost. In a word, there are three things that last forever: faith, hope and love: but the greatest of them all is love.
I will never in a day forget you Daniel Edward Ourada…I love you so very much!
Thank you~ for all the good times, your presence, the respect, your smile, and the amount of joy have brought to all of us. Because of this, you will always be with us and will continue to influence our lives. We love you always
~ the SSU Mustang Wrestling Team 2002
*Shannons Contribution*
I was thinking of you on Thursday, May 24th(Dan's birthday). I am a horrible friend and didn't call you! I am sorry. I went to Subway on Friday and then I ate an ice cream "sammich". I know it's not the same as EVERYONE eating a gallon of ice cream right out of the bucket (Ondo Style) but it was the best I could come up with.
I went up to my cabin (an hour north of Duluth) this weekend. We got back this evening. It is so amazing up there, Laurie! That really is God's country! One thing that makes that trip better than most, is the drive. You don't dread the drive! Once you get to Duluth, you drive along the lakeside the rest of the way. It's pretty cool. Saturday afternoon...okay, maybe Tammi and I were pushing noon...we opened a few beers. I was drinking Mich Golden Lite and she was of course drinking Miller Lite. After her 1st one she looked at me and asked if she could have a Mich. I said, "ya, but why?" Tammi said, "this beer makes me think of Laurie, so let's drink to Her for this one!" So we did. Just thought I would share, that we were thinking of you. 
On the drive home this morning, I saw a HUGE bald eagle! He was was just soaring through the air. Back and forth over the road. Over the trees and then back over the lake. He was awesome! It was like I could see his eyes and where he was looking and his head turning. Hard to explain, but I have never had the chance to sit and watch an eagle do his thing. I have seen many eagles, but not like this. Even though I was driving, I was keeping an eye on him. He stayed in front of us for a few miles. Pretty cool!
Laurie, I really want to go hang gliding! I know we've talked about it before, but I think we should look into where we can do it (besides California)
Alright, well, I better get off to bed.
Have a great rest of the week!
KEEP SMILIN'!!
~Shannon
